KUALA SELANGOR: Two people, including a policeman, were injured in a riot which broke out during a religious ceremony at a Hindu temple in Sungai Darah, here, on Sunday night.
The commotion was triggered by a disagreement between two parang-wielding rival gangs during a chariot procession at Kuil Kaliamma Bestari Jaya, at 9.15pm.
The 34-year-old policeman, who was trying to calm the angry mob, was attacked and injured on his back and left hand; while a member of the public had his left palm severed by a rioter.
Police brought the situation under control shortly after.
A total of 28 people were arrested and are currently being held in the Kuala Selangor area by the Selangor police contingent’s Gangsterism, Gambling and Vice Prevention Unit and the Kuala Selangor Criminal Investigation Department.
Five “sharp weapons” were also confiscated.
“The incident is believed to have stemmed from dissatisfaction (over the setting up of tents at the temple).
“(Some) tents were erected in front of several gangs… We are in the midst of identifying the (gang members),” Selangor Criminal Investigation Department chief Senior Assistant Commissioner Fadzil Ahmat said in a statement, today.
“Policemen on duty tried to calm the situation and make arrests, but were attacked instead.
“The injured cop, based at the Bestari Jaya station, suffered injuries… and received six stitches.
“The injured civilian is being treated at the Sungai Buloh Hospital,” he added.
Fazil said a remand order will be sought against the suspects at the Kuala Selangor Magistrate’s Court today.
The case will be investigated under Section 148/326 of the Penal Code for Possessing weapons at a riot; and voluntarily causing grievous hurt using dangerous weapons.
The hunt for more suspects is underway, Fazil added.