The police are identifying 30 individuals involved in the commotion at the ‘Malam Mesra Muo’ programme organised by the Malaysian United Democratic Alliance (Muda), last night.
Muar police chief Assistant Commissioner Raiz Mukhliz Azman Aziz said the commotion started when guests of the programme, held at a restaurant in Jalan Bakri in Muar were confronted by the group of people.
The men, mostly dressed in black, turned rowdy when they were denied entry into the hall at 9.50pm.
A scuffle broke out and lasted for about 10 minutes before the group left.
They, however, returned with more people and started throwing firecrackers at the Muda members and plainclothes policemen at the entrance.
“About 30 individuals wearing face masks started shouting and throwing bottles and firecrackers.
“Muar police will investigate the case under the Peaceful Assembly Act 2012.
“The public are advised to avoid speculating and spreading baseless information through any communication platform and social media,” Raiz Mukhliz said.
Muda information team’s chief of staff K Leben Siddharth said the incident happened just before Muda president Syed Saddiq Abdul Rahman took the stage to deliver his speech.
“Muda Sabah chairman Amos Thien was injured by the firecrackers while Muda co-founder Lim Wei Jiet’s car was also badly damaged in the incident.
“We will lodge a police report on the attack shortly,” he said.
Meanwhile, Syed Saddiq said the incident will not weaken his spirit and members of the party.
“This is the second time someone tried to provoke us, but they are more daring now by throwing firecrackers and things.” he said.
Syed Saddiq hoped the police will act quickly on the reports lodged, including a similar incident in Parit Jawa last week.
“Cars were damaged and this is no joking matter. In Muar, we prefer peaceful and healthy campaigns despite difference in opinions and principles.” he said.
Umno Johor later denied that it was behind the disruption.