IPOH: The alleged harassment of two Johor media practitioners by a minister's bodyguard is currently being investigated by the Integrity and Standard Compliance Department (JIPS).
Deputy Inspector-General of Police (DIGP) Datuk Seri Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay said an investigation paper has been opened under the department.
"So far no police reports have been lodged (by the reporters). Johor police have opened a disciplinary investigation paper under JIPS.
"So we will wait for the outcome of the investigation and see what necessary action will be taken. We have to hear both parties on what transpired," he said.
Ayob said this in a press conference after attending the 44th Anniversary of the Police's Air Operation Force (PGU) at the Police Air Wing Training Base (PLPGU).
Also present were PGU Commander Datuk Noor Sham Md Jani and Perak deputy police chief Datuk Azizi Mat Aris.
Ayob added that it was learnt that during the incident, the minister was walking towards his vehicle and the reporters were behind him.
"The job scope of the bodyguards is to ensure that the route the VIP is taking is clear, to prevent falls.
"But at the same time, reporters so eager to get his comment; such an incident could have occurred," he said, adding that it was best to wait for the outcome of the investigation before any action could be taken.
On Sept 5, two alleged harassments of a female journalist covering the Home Ministry events at Taman Anggerik and subsequently at another event by the same ministry at Taman Dahlia in Johor Baru occurred.
The alleged harassment by one of the ministry security personnel occurred when he attempted to obstruct media practitioners during a press conference by the home minister.
He was alleged to have touched the female journalist's hand inappropriately while she was recording the event.
The security personnel was also alleged to have repeatedly pinched the back of another female journalist's waist to prevent her from carrying out her duties during the press conference.