Police are awaiting the forensic analysis of a suspect’s mobile phone before completing their investigation into the alleged spread of defamatory content involving Kampung Lubuk Gaharu Tok Batin Mohd Asmadi Abdullah in connection with the disappearance of hiker Jaslinda Saludin.
Perak Police Chief Datuk Mohd Alwi Zainal Abidin said investigations have been completed, with the forensic report being the final requirement before the case is referred to the Deputy Public Prosecutor (DPP).
“Once we receive the forensic report, we will submit the investigation papers to the DPP for further instructions,” he said during a press conference at the Perak Police Contingent Headquarters on Monday.
Previously, a man in his 30s was remanded for four days to assist investigations into the alleged defamation before being released on police bail.
The investigation followed a viral livestream that falsely claimed Mohd Asmadi had “kept” Jaslinda for two weeks and intended to marry the female hiker if the matter had not become public.
Following the controversy, the suspect issued a public apology through a video recording over the claims.
The allegations also prompted around 50 Tok Batin and representatives of the Orang Asli community from Batang Padang, Muallim and Kinta districts to lodge police reports condemning the defamatory statements against Mohd Asmadi.
Suspect In Attack On Policemen Identified
In a separate development, Mohd Alwi said police have identified the suspect believed to be responsible for attacking two police officers in Kampung Sungai Jernih, Ijok, Selama, on June 23.
He said efforts are ongoing to locate the suspect, who is believed to still be hiding within the local area.
“The injured officers are still on medical leave and undergoing recovery after being discharged from hospital,” he said.
The incident occurred at about 12pm on June 23, when a 44-year-old sergeant and a 27-year-old constable were assaulted while conducting checks on a man believed to be a drug addict.
The suspect allegedly turned aggressive and attacked both officers with a sharp weapon, causing injuries to their heads, faces and arms before fleeing the scene.
Police are continuing efforts to track down the suspect.
