Malaysia apprehends eight suspected terrorists
Authorities in Malaysia have detained eight individuals suspected of having ties to the Islamic State (IS) extremist group. According to officials, potential threats directed towards Minister President Anwar Ibrahim, King Sultan Ibrahim Iskandar, and other prominent figures have been thwarted.
In a recent police operation over the weekend, six men and two women were apprehended without prior notice. Previous operations took place in May. Among those arrested were a former university instructor, homemakers, and a construction laborer.
Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution revealed that investigations had uncovered threats aimed at Anwar, Sultan Ibrahim Iskandar, high-ranking police officers, and other influential individuals. He added that the investigations are still ongoing.
The public is advised to remain calm as the authorities have taken measures to respond to any threat from extremists early on. However, Saifuddin encouraged the public to stay alert, as advanced technologies and social media are increasingly being exploited to propagate harmful ideologies.
Malaysia has taken decisive action to limit the influence of militant cells with ties to IS. Before the year 2020, several hundred individuals were arrested on suspicion of links to the terror group. However, the number of arrests has declined in recent years.
