KUALA LUMPUR – The police have identified several social media accounts that have been publishing personal attacks on national footballers, leading to the incitement of hate against them.
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said that early investigations have revealed that the content uploaded by these users primarily consists of negative sentiments directed towards the footballers, including details of their personal lives.
“The incidents involving Akhyar Rashid and Faisal Halim prompted the police to take action, resulting in the arrest of the perpetrators.
“We have received reports regarding the existence of several social media accounts on Facebook and various other platforms targeting national footballers.
“The content of these posts aims to incite hatred, insults, and disparagement towards all aspects of the players’ lives, including their social circles.
“Such behaviour must be condemned and stopped,” he told reporters after a town hall session at the Defence Services Asia and National Security Asia 2024 exhibitions at Mitec, here today.
At the same time, Saifuddin assures that the safety of national players is a top priority, and urged the public to trust the police to maintain peace and order in the country.
“I guarantee that peace and safety in the country are maintained.
“The players should focus on their careers ahead of the new league season which will start on Friday,” he added.
He also cautioned the public against speculating on the cases involving Selangor FC’s Faisal, who was subject to an acid attack, and Terengganu FC’s Akhyar who was robbed two days prior.
“My message to the public is to refrain from engaging in speculation of any kind, as it does not help at all.
“Give space and full trust in the police to carry out their duties,” said Saifuddin.
On Sunday, Faisal, 26, suffered fourth-degree burns to his body after being splashed with acid by an unknown assailant at a shopping mall in Kota Damansara.
Two days prior, Akhyar, 25, sustained injuries to his head and leg after being assaulted with an iron rod during a robbery at his condominium in Kuala Terengganu, after returning home from training. – May 7, 2024