Bernama reported Inspector-General of Police Razarudin Husain as saying the journalists behind the article would have their statements recorded at the Dang Wangi police headquarters at 2.30pm.

Earlier, he issued a statement denying the article’s claims that the reshuffle would likely shift deputy inspector-general of police Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay and criminal investigation department director Shuhaily Zain, among other top officers, to other agencies under the home ministry.

Malaysiakini’s article on Tuesday quoted a police source as saying Ayob is going to lead either the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency or Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency.

It also quoted a senior home ministry official as indicating that if there was such a reshuffling plan, the home ministry was not involved.

Razarudin said the federal police headquarters had not issued any official statement on the matter.

“We understand the media’s responsibility to deliver news to the public, but it must be done ethically.”

Razarudin said police would not hesitate to take stern action under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act (CMA) (for improper use of network facilities or services), Section 505(b) of the Penal Code (publication of statements conducive to public mischief) and other provisions of the law.

He warned that under Section 233 of the CMA, those convicted can be fined up to RM50,000, imprisoned for a year, or both.