JOHOR BARU: A police inspector was remanded yesterday for allegedly sexually assaulting a 16-year-old girl at Taman Johor Jaya, here, on Monday.
Johor police chief Commissioner M. Kumar disclosed that a six-day remand order was secured against the 29-year-old senior police officer stationed at the Pontian district headquarters.
The remand, set to expire on April 28, is intended to facilitate investigations under Section 14(a) of the Sexual Offences Against Children Act 2017, pertaining to physical sexual assault.
Kumar said the alleged incident transpired on Monday at 6pm at an undisclosed location in Taman Johor Jaya.
He said the officer was apprehended around 11pm at another undisclosed site in Seri Alam, merely five hours after the report was lodged.
Also seized were his mobile phone and SIM card, believed to contain pertinent evidence related to the alleged assault.
Kumar underscored the gravity of the allegation, noting that the police officer could potentially face up to a 20-year imprisonment term and caning upon conviction.
He emphasised the police force's unwavering commitment to combatting integrity issues and criminal misconduct within their ranks to bolster public confidence.
"We will not compromise and will take stern action, without favour or fear, against any police personnel —regardless of rank— who engage in criminal activities or behaviours," he added.
Article Eight states "that persons are equal before the law and entitled to the equal protection of the law".
He added that investigations were ongoing, and urged members of the public to refrain from making any speculations that could hamper investigations.
He urged those who could shed light on their investigations to call their hotline at 0192792095 or the state contingent headquarters at 07-2212999.