Police Investigate Vandalism of Temple Statue in Bukit Tinggi Following Three Reports

KUANTAN, Aug 17 — Pahang police have launched a investigation after receiving three separate reports regarding the vandalism of a statue at a non-Muslim place of worship in Bukit Tinggi, Bentong.

Pahang acting police chief Datuk Azry Akmar Ayob confirmed that the police reports were lodged yesterday by three individuals — a 49-year-old security guard, a 45-year-old monk, and a 41-year-old man — following the discovery of the damage.

“The police have gone to the scene and initial investigations found that there were no closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras installed in the temple area and there were no independent witnesses who saw the incident,” Azry Akmar said in a statement today.

Stressing the severity of the matter, Azry Akmar gave assurance that police view the incident seriously and are actively conducting thorough investigations to determine the motive and track down those responsible.

The case is currently being investigated under Section 295 of the Penal Code for injuring or defiling a place of worship with intent to insult religion, alongside Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998.

In light of the incident, the acting police chief strongly cautioned members of the public against engaging in speculation or circulating unverified claims, particularly across social media platforms, warning that such actions could compromise police investigations or provoke unnecessary public unrest.

He urged anyone possessing relevant information regarding the incident to come forward and contact the police immediately to assist with ongoing enquiries.

–NMT