[UPDATED] Police: 18,000 people attended opposition rally in KL

New Straits Times

6 days ago

KUALA LUMPUR: At least 18,000 people attended the Pas-led rally held at Dataran Merdeka here today.
This was confirmed by acting city police chief Datuk Mohamed Usuf Jan Mohamad, adding that no untoward incidents occurred.
"There were no incidents of provocation and everything ran smoothly," he said at the scene today.
Usuf advised organisers of such events to be more transparent in future on their needs beforehand.
"Our main objective is to ensure public order and the safety of everyone there.
"There are times when some things will be prohibited due to safety considerations," he said, referring to the removal of a stage that was set up by organisers.
Usuf said police would analyse the speeches made at the rally to see if there were seditious remarks or 3R (race, religion and royalty) elements.
"We had 3,000 personnel on duty to ensure public order and safety.
"We will conduct a post-mortem meeting to discuss if any improvements can be made in future."
He said the number of police reports lodged in relation to the rally remained at 60.
"Many of these reports were lodged by people who disagree with the rally.
"Today, no new reports have been lodged."
Police had anticipated a turnout of 10,000 to 15,000 people at the rally.
Participants were set to gather at Masjid Negara, Pasar Seni, Masjid Jamek Sultan Abdul Samad, Masjid Jamek Kampung Baru and Sogo, then converge at Dataran Merdeka.
The rally aimed to pressure the government on the rising cost of living and alleged institutional failures.
Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Mohd Khalid Ismail had said police would facilitate the assembly.
A total of 16 roads were closed for the rally, which ended at 5.20pm.