KUALA LUMPUR: The shocking assault on the 12-year-old son of Pandan member of parliament and former economy minister Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli has sparked public outrage and drawn swift responses from authorities and political leaders.
The incident took place earlier today at a shopping mall in Putrajaya, when the assailants attacked and jabbed the child with a syringe before fleeing.
Selangor police chief Datuk Shazeli Kahar said they are tracking down two male suspects, and that CCTV footage from the mall has been obtained and reviewed.
The boy is in stable condition and receiving hospital treatment.
Rafizi said this was the first time his family had been targeted, and believes the assault was a warning meant to silence him on certain issues.
He said he would not bow to threats and would continue his work as usual.
The Home Ministry pledged a fair and uncompromised investigation, regardless of anyone’s status or background.
At the parliament, Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul assured the lower house that he would seek clarification from Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail on the incident, and, if necessary, convene a special session to address safety concerns for all MPs.
Penang PKR Youth Penang PKR Youth condemned the act as a “cowardly attempt” to weaken resolve, urging police to act swiftly.
The investigation is ongoing, with police appealing for the public to avoid speculation and allow due process to take its course.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
