KUALA LUMPUR: The police will require all officers and personnel assigned to safeguard national leaders and very important persons (VVIPs) to undergo a special security course aimed at enhancing readiness while on duty.
Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Mohd Khalid Ismail said the move follows an incident in which a woman attempted to approach the Sultan of Perak, Sultan Nazrin Shah, during the state-level National Day celebration in Perak recently.
“We will further strengthen security for all leaders and heads of state, including the sultans and Yang di-Pertua Negeri.
“This enhanced (security) will be reinforced through personal protection courses by incorporating elements of the Special Actions Unit (UTK) and Commando training for all officers serving with the palace and state governments,” he said after attending the Launch of the PDRM Policing Diploma (MQA) and National Police Occupational Skills Standards Programme at the Kuala Kubu Bharu Police College today.
Yesterday, police opened a disciplinary inquiry against the escort officers involved to determine if negligence played a role during the incident. Khalid said the investigation into the 41-year-old woman was also focused on possible drug abuse.
“Preliminary checks revealed that the suspect has a record of drug-related cases and psychiatric treatment,” he said.
The case is being investigated under Section 325/511 of the Penal Code for attempted causing of grievous hurt.
The incident occurred at 8.20am on Aug 31, when a woman dashed towards Sultan Nazrin during the state-level National Day celebration, but was restrained by the palace security team.
The woman has been remanded for three days, from today until Sept 3, to assist in the investigation. The remand order was issued by magistrate Wardah Nabilah Mohd Abd Wahab at the Ipoh police headquarters lock-up.
Police have opened a disciplinary inquiry following the incident. Perak police chief Datuk Noor Hisam Nordin was reported to have said a disciplinary investigation will be opened if any negligence is found, allowing for a comprehensive review before further action is taken.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
