Police open two probes into viral issue involving activist and Myanmar refugee community in Kelantan

Kota Bharu, Oct 18 — Kelantan police have initiated two investigations following a viral incident involving a social media activist and the Myanmar refugee community. Among the cases, a robbery resulted in the arrest of two local men. Kelantan police chief Datuk Mohd Yusoff Mamat stated that the procedures are being followed under Penal Code Sections 341, 268, and 395.

He emphasized that the police are committed to upholding public order and community harmony, taking necessary actions in line with the law. Mohd Yusoff also cited Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail's statement that 199 criminal cases involving Myanmar refugees have been recorded nationwide from 2022 to August 2026.

The Refugee Registration Document, implemented by the Home Affairs Ministry, aims to systematically record refugees' identities and biometric data, aiding authorities in security vetting and identity verification. Following the release of the detained activist, who was arrested alongside 12 others, around 50 supporters gathered outside the Kota Bharu District Police Headquarters.