Police Chief Says Slap May Have Been 'Immediate Reaction' at Johor Petrol Station

The incident has sparked widespread discussion after a video of a motorcyclist being slapped at a petrol station in Taman Perling, Johor, on 11 January went viral on social media. Police said the incident took place during a traffic operation last Sunday.

Johor police chief CP Datuk Ab Rahman Arsad said it could have been an immediate reaction. The accused policeman was on leave at the time but was called in to assist in the operation due to manpower shortages. The police registered the matter on their own initiative and started an investigation.

Background to the Operation

Police said that at the time, the North Johor Bahru district police were conducting an operation to crack down on illegal motorcycle racing or ‘mat rempit.‘ The police officers participating in the operation tried to stop the suspected motorcycle.

However, it is claimed that the rider in question tried to escape. This situation created tension. Police say the incident was not planned. Rather, such behavior may have occurred out of the emotion of the moment.

Viral Video

A 33-second video shows a motorcyclist with a female passenger preparing to leave a petrol station with a passenger. Just then, another person blocked her path. Then, a man quickly came forward and slapped him.

As the video went viral, questions and anger arose in the public. After confirming the time and place of the incident, the police intensified the investigation. CCTV footage is also being examined.

Progress of the Investigation

The police said that the victim, a 21-year-old youth, filed a complaint on the night of the incident. So far, statements have been taken from four people, including the accused policeman. Several more will be called for questioning.

The case is under investigation under Section 323 of the Penal Code. Once the investigation is completed, further action will be taken according to the rules of the Royal Malaysian Police. The police have assured a transparent and impartial investigation.

Netizens’ Reactions

The incident has received mixed reactions on social media. Many believe that while the role of the police in maintaining law and order is important, excessive use of force is unacceptable. Some have questioned what the legal basis is for taking someone’s phone during a raid.

Others believe that restraint from both sides is essential in a tense situation. As a result, the incident has sparked a new discussion about police behavior and the limits of power.