The article titled "e-mail messages that warn of criminal tactics" with the sub topic 'Women's Right 6pm to 6am', published in the Sunday Star, page F 24, on 19th October 2008 is referred.

The Royal Malaysia Police would like to rectify the article that a woman has the right to refuse to go to the police station between 6 pm to 6 am, despite a warrant of arrest being issued and a woman can only be arrested by a woman officer are NOT true and it is not stated under any provision of law. It is misleading.

The concern of the writer on women safety is understood. However, under the provision of Section 23 (a) Criminal Procedure Code, the police can arrest anyone ANY TIME on valid reason such as credible information has been received or reasonable suspicion that a person has committed any offence.

In any circumstances, woman under arrest or her family members can verify the authenticity of the police officers that carry out the arrest through a phone call to the police control centre or police station or request her family members or friend to follow her to the police station (in a separate vehicle).

The rights of an arrested person are depicted clearly under section 28A Criminal Procedure Code where "Women rights 6 pm to 6 am" is not mentioned. The only provision of law requiring the presence of a female is stated under Section 19 (2) of The Criminal Procedure Code, where a body search of a female can only be conducted by another female.

It is hope that this clarification on the "misleading information" to be understood fully in the context of the law. Should anyone requires any clarification concerning the police procedures, please do not hesitate to write to the Royal Malaysia Police's official mail: rmp@rmp.gov.my, we are pleased to answer any queries to avoid unnecessary misinformation.

(DATUK MOHD BAKRI BIN MOHD ZININ) CP
DIRECTOR OF CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION DEPARTMENT
ROYAL MALAYSIA POLICE