KUALA LUMPUR – Police suspect the anonymous caller alleging to have placed bombs around Johor Bahru’s Mid Valley Southkey and St. Giles Hotel Southkey to be a foreigner.
Johor police chief Datuk Kamarul Zaman Mamat said in a statement today that authorities have cleared the mall and hotel of any security threats late last night, and will continue to monitor the premises.
The mall in a Facebook post said it is resuming its operations today, and thanked the authorities for their swift action and assistance.
Yesterday at 6.10pm, the mall and hotel’s management team called police after receiving a threatening anonymous call.
Following the call, 92 senior police personnel, and two K9 police dogs were dispatched to inspect the location. They were also assisted by three officers and 20 personnel from the Fire and Rescue Department.
By 11.20pm, police declared that the locations were safe.
Kamarul advised the public to remain calm and refrain from any speculation that could cause panic and disturb public order.
The case is investigated under Section 507 of the Penal Code for criminal intimidation by anonymous communication, which carries a punishment of a maximum of seven years’ jail or with a fine or with both, upon conviction.
Shoppers and employees at the mall were instructed by the management and security personnel to immediately evacuate the premises and gather at its open-air parking space after an emergency alarm rang at 6.40pm yesterday. – October 15, 2023