Loke instructs party's Youth wing to lodge reports against Akmal
In a statement, Loke said the march amounted to "bullying and intimidation" against the shop owner, who had displayed the national flag incorrectly in a viral video.
He said Akmal's actions disregarded warnings from the Inspector-General of Police and the Penang police chief against holding public gatherings.
"Akmal's disregard for police warnings is an act that challenges the rule of law and disrupts public order, causing anxiety among traders in the surrounding area to the extent that they had to close their businesses earlier than usual.
"Such actions go beyond the limits of the law and the norms of Malaysia's multi-ethnic society, and appropriate punishment must be imposed for such extreme behaviour," he said.
Loke had since instructed the DAP Youth wing to file reports under several sections of the Penal Code, including Section 503 for criminal intimidation, Section 504 for intentional insult with intent to provoke a breach of the peace, and Section 505 for statements that are conducive to public mischief.
Additionally, other reports will also be made under two new sections related to bullying, including Section 507B for causing harassment, distress, fear or anxiety, and Section 507C for uttering words likely to cause such feelings.
Loke stressed that although the Jalur Gemilang must be flown correctly and with respect, acts of intimidation and creating tension were not the way to resolve the matter.
It was reported yesterday that Akmal led more than 300 supporters from Umno, Bersatu, and Pas in a 1.4 km march to protest against a hardware store that had displayed the Jalur Gemilang upside down.
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