THE Prevention of Crime Act 1959 (Poca) was initially enacted to control and prevent organised crime by targeting “criminals, members of secret societies, terrorists and other undesirable persons” in Malaysia. It grants the police power to arrest and detain an individual without trial for up to 60 days. These 60 days can be broken down into the preliminary arrest for 24 hours, an extension of 21 days with a statement in writing signed by a police officer and a further extension of 38 days.ADVERTISEMENT Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express’s Telegram channel.
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Following the 60-day detention, the detainee would have his or her case heard before the Prevention of Crime Board which has the power to sentence the detainee to not more than two years and may extend if further detention is necessary to protect public order, public security or prevention of crime. The board also has the option to issue restraining order or discharge an individual.
In 2015, Poca was amended to include terrorism.