TAWAU: Police have called in 10 individuals, including two women, to assist in investigations into the spread of a fake robbery video purportedly occurring in Taman Berjaya here.
Tawau District Police Chief ACP Jasmin Hussin said investigation papers have been opened and all 10 individuals aged between 20 and 60 were summoned to have their statements recorded.
“We confirmed the viral video did not take place in this district, but in Ayer Tawar, Perak. However, circulating such footage can cause public unrest,” he said.
Jasmin said the case is being investigated under Section 505 of the Penal Code for public mischief and Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1988.
He warned that stern action awaits if they are found guilty, with a maximum two-year jail term and fine, or both, under Section 505.
The 2.58-second CCTV footage showed two machete-wielding individuals apparently committing robbery. It was uploaded on the TawauKini Facebook page with the caption: “Taman Berjaya Tawau, 10 such cases in one month, be careful everyone.”
Jasmin said the incident occurred on May 20 at 9.34pm in Ayer Tawar and is being investigated under Section 394 of the Penal Code for robbery.
He reminded the public not to spread unverified statements on social media but to refer to official or credible sources instead.
The fake video had gone viral, sparking concerns among netizens before its inaccuracy was uncovered.
