GEORGE TOWN: Penang police have identified gangs and non-governmental organisations (NGO) funded by secret societies that may cause disturbances during the state election.
State police chief Datuk Khaw Kok Chin today said they would monitor the situation to prevent any disturbance.
"We have identified areas where these gangs or NGOs can influence and disrupt the election, especially during campaigning.
"We have also identified people who may disrupt the election.
"We have a list of their data and activities. We are monitoring and carrying out intelligence to ensure they do not cause problems.
"Whether they are active or inactive, we have a list of them," he said this at the state police contingent headquarters here.
Meanwhile, Khaw said the state police had identified Permatang Pasir in Permatang Pauh and Bayan Lepas in Balik Pulau as possible hotspots during the election.
"We will also monitor the remaining 38 state constituencies during campaigning.
"The focus on these hotspots is based on information obtained by the police. For now, the situation is under control."
Meanwhile, he said 5,776 police officers and personnel, with the help of an additional 663 personnel from Bukit Aman and other contingents, would be mobilised during the election.
"In Penang, there are 23 nomination centres, 14 of which are on the island while the remaining nine are in Seberang Prai."