Sabah Police Commissioner Abd Rashid Harun said the information was only rumours. He then appealed to the public to stop believing them and to refrain from spreading any unverified news.

News about terrorist threats, which went viral via WhatsApp yesterday, were believed to have been spread by irresponsible parties after police assets and personnel were deployed in several operations and roadblocks around the city.

“The deployment of assets and personnel is a normal practice and has nothing to do with any incident or threat as claimed in the news,” he told reporters after launching ‘Ops Selamat 8’ in conjunction with Chinese New Year celebrations here, today.

He urged members of the public to contact the police station or the nearest district police headquarters to obtain whatever information necessary and to avoid listening to rumours.

“The police will also issue a statement to the press immediately should there be any alarming news [on threats],” he said.

Meanwhile, commenting on Ops Selamat 8, Abd Rashid said the police were focusing on security around housing estates and road safety.

“We urge motorists to always abide by traffic signs and to refrain from driving while under the influence of alcohol.

“Those leaving their houses for a long period should inform the nearest police station so that police can patrol the areas to prevent break-ins,” he said.

– BERNAMA