Malaysia: Reports lodged on Johor oil and gas hub to be investigated

Desiree Tresa Gasper The Star 11 Jun 12;

JOHOR BARU: The police have formed a special task force to look into the 45 reports lodged relating to the oil and gas hub in Pengerang here.

Johor Police Chief DCP Mokhtar Shariff said that the special task force would be headed by State acting CID chief Asst Comm Mohd Akhir Ishak.

“Among the reports we have received are those relating to protests against the projects, encroachment issues and those relating to incitement and threats connected to the project,” he said.

He was speaking to reporters during a press conference at the Johor Police headquarters here yesterday (June 5).

“I hope that residents will be responsible and not simply lodge police reports relating to the matter.

“We have even received reports from resident complaining that some quarters were distributing leaflets relating to the project in their neighbourhood,” he said adding that the leaflets were just educational material and it was unnecessary for a police report to be made.

DCP Mohd Mokhtar said that the police had many things to look into and this included keeping a check on actual criminal activities.

“Those who are not happy with the project should not act as they please or spread rumours that the project is unsafe,” he said adding that these parties should forward their concerns via proper channels.

The multi billion ringgit oil and gas hub is expected to be completed by 2016 but some quarters have voiced their dissatisfaction about the project stating that it is causing pollution and destroying the marine life in the area.