Suspected militants held under ISA

The Sun
by Charles Ramendran

KUALA LUMPUR (Nov 17, 2011): Despite it being in its last months of existence before it is abolished in March next year, the Internal Security Act (ISA) was invoked again on 13 suspected members of a militant group in Sabah on Monday.

Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Ismail Omar said today, following investigations and intelligence gathering over several months, police learnt that the suspects were planning to revive militancy in Sabah.

He said in a brief statement that the probe led to the arrest of seven Malaysians and six foreigners between Monday and Wednesday.

He said the suspects are being held and investigated under Section 73 (1) of the ISA which allows detention up to 60 days without a arrest warrant for activities which could affect the security of the country.

Ismail said if the activities of the group can threaten or affect national security if it is not thwarted.

Although it was not disclosed by police, it is believed that the foreign suspects detained are Indonesians and Filipinos.