KUALA LUMPUR: Stern action will be taken against those who take the law into their own hands over the controversial socks issue, says the Bukit Aman CID director.

Comm Datuk Seri Mohd Shuhaily Mohd Zain said vigilantism is prohibited and stern action awaits those who engage in such acts.

"If people take the law into their own hands, it will only worsen the situation.

"We will not tolerate any acts of vigilantism," he told a press conference at Bukit Aman on Friday (March 22).

He was commenting on the action of some individuals who hounded those who posted offensive comments on the issue.

"Let the authorities enforce the law.

"In the month of Ramadan, let us all be patient no matter the situation.

"We have taken necessary action under the law... let justice be served," he said.

Asked about people boycotting convenience store chain KK Super Mart, which is at the centre of the controversy involving socks with the word "Allah" printed on them, he said the boycott was a form of freedom of expression as stipulated under the Federal Constitution.

"At the moment, there is also a boycott on other companies due to Gaza. It is up to people as it is their right to do so.

"This particular case involving KK Super Mart has affected Muslims in the country and garnered strong reactions from the country's leaders.

"I am also affected by it, but when I wear this uniform, I perform my duties professionally," he said.

He also advised the people, including religious experts, to calm the situation.

"Issue statements that will not worsen the situation.

"Freedom without limits will always lead to trouble," he said.

On the socks' vendor claiming to have been threatened, Comm Mohd Shuhaily said no police report had been received so far.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/03/22/socks-issue-vigilantism-will-not-be-tolerated-says-cid-chief