IGP warns of stringent action against Malaysians sheltering militants

Malaysians found to be in cahoots with and sheltering militants hiding in the country will face stringent action, said Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Khalid Abu Bakar.

He said the Royal Malaysian Police was cooperating with the international police (Interpol) to detect militants and Malaysians providing them shelter.

"Stringent action will be taken against anybody found trying to shelter militants who are wanted by Interpol for their involvement in terrorism.

"We do not rule out that there are cases of Malaysians who are in cahoots with and sheltering members of militant groups, and those involved are always under police observation," he said.

Khalid spoke to reporters after officiating at an assembly of police civilian staff to mark the 207th Police Day here Friday.

At the end of last month, 10 individuals, one of them a woman, were detained by police on suspicion of having been involved in militant activities linked to the Al-Qaeda and Jemaah Islamiah networks and having received military-style training.

Khalid said no new arrests had been made.

"We do not rule out the possibility of the comprehensive infrastructure facilities available in the country as a factor for Malaysia being picked by the militants to carry out their activities," he said.

"Nevertheless, the police are always keeping their eyes peeled and monitoring the groups and individuals seen as a threat to the security of the people and country.

"Action will be taken against them (militants) before they do any damage," he added.