The Penang police have received 16 reports regarding the controversial "Jesus son of Allah" banners and the two Molotov cocktails thrown into the compound of the Assumption Church, said its chief, Abdul Rahim Hanafi.

 

He disclosed that police have opened four investigation papers - three under Section 4(9) of the Sedition Act, and another under Section 436 (5) (ii) of the Penal Code, for mischief using fire.

 

"Thank God there was no incident last night," said Abdul Rahim ( right ).

 

He said that 40 percent of the probe is completed and police have taken statements from eight people.

 

A special task force has been formed with 73 senior officers and 210 policemen specially assigned to monitor churches and mosques.

Abdul Rahim said the police have yet to obtain reports from the Forensic Department, and are currently studying a CCTV recording installed on Farquhar Street, where the Assumption Church is located.

 

"The two persons on a motorcycle wore helmets so it will take time to identify them," adding that no arrests have been made as yet.

 

Abdul Rahim also denied that 250 policemen will be sent from Perak to assist Penang in the matter.

 

He was asked the question as Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng told reporters about it yesterday but Perak police have denied it.

 

"If CM said this, it is up to him, but all police are the same. We have 120,000 police personnel nation-wide," he added.

 

Abdul Rahim then gave a stern warning that police will take firm action against those who create racial and religious tensions in the state, either by their actions or issuing statements.