The arrest of former Internal Security Act detainee, Yazid Sufaat, 49 along with two others under the recently introduced Security Offences (Special Measures) Act 2012 r

What is Security Offences (Special Measures) Act 2012?

The Act was made under the Article 149 of Federal Constitution to thwart internal security issues including public order, acts of terrorism, sabotage and espionage. The Act replaces the controversial Internal Security Act (ISA) 1960.

According to the Section 4 (key provision) of the Act, a police officer has special power of arrest and detention over persons whom he has reason to believe is involved in high-risked security offences.

The 60-days period of police detaining a suspect now have been reduced to 28 days and an electronic tracking device placed on released suspects.

Among the other highlights of the Act:

1. The person arrested may be detained for 24 hours for investigation.

2. The period of detention may be extended up to 28 days. This may be reviewed every five years.

3. There will be no recourse for detainees to challenge their arrest or subsequent incarceration.

4. The public prosecutor may authorise the police to intercept, detain and open any postal article.

5. Police can also intercept any message transmitted or received in any form and also intercept and listen to any conversation.

6. The police can with a permit enter any premises to install devices to intercept and retain any form of communications.

7. Sensitive information can be admitted as evidence in court.