The law firm representing two police officers who allegedly were assaulted by the director-general of the Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS) has threatened civil legal action against those spreading false statements about the case.
Kamal Hisham & Associates said the claims included allegations that a criminal syndicate was financing the legal fees of the two officers.
The firm said the statements not only targeted its clients but also damaged its reputation as their legal representative.
In a statement, the firm acknowledged the right to freedom of speech under Article 10(1)(a) of the Federal Constitution, which allows individuals to express reasonable opinions and make statements about the case.
However, it stressed that freedom of speech was not absolute and warned that false statements could be investigated by the authorities under Section 505 of the Penal Code and Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998.
In a related development, the firm said both officers had lodged additional police reports on October 10 to submit material evidence to the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) for investigation.
The firm said it believed the facts of the case could point to possible offences under Sections 186, 323, 353, 355 and/or 506 of the Penal Code.
These provisions cover offences including obstructing public servants, voluntarily causing hurt, assault or criminal force, and criminal intimidation, depending on the circumstances.
The firm said it would leave the investigation to the police and the Attorney-General’s Chambers to assess the evidence and determine the appropriate course of action in the interests of justice for all parties.
