INSPECTOR-General of Police Fuzi Harun, who visited the fireman who was attacked by a mob at the Seafield Sri Maha Mariamman temple earlier today, said that the police cannot prevent people from visiting or attending prayers at the temple.

Fuzi said he had advised people against gathering in large numbers at the temple, but said people could not be stopped from going there.

“I’ve advised (them) not to gather but if they (devotees) want to perform prayers or visit a place of worship, we cannot stop them,” he said at the Subang Jaya Medical Centre today.

Fuzi also said people have asked for the roads leading to the temple to be closed, but added that it would only inconvenience the public.

“Many told me today that the roads leading to the temple must be closed but we cannot do that as it will be troublesome for other motorists,” he told reporters.

The 24-year-old fireman who was attacked by a mob at the Seafield Sri Maha Mariamman temple early today has broken ribs and is unable to breathe on his own.

Muhammad Adib Mohd Kassim, who is unconscious and is on life support, was due to get married next month, Housing and Local Government Minister Zuraida Kamaruddin told reporters after visiting him this morning.

Fuzi said Adib is still in critical condition. 

“Adib was attacked while on duty. I met the doctors. He is in critical condition,” Fuzi said. 

He said that police have so far detained 21 people involved in the temple fracas and are hoping to get more soon. 

“As of 1pm today, I was told that 21 people were arrested and all them within the Klang Valley. 

“We hope others can help to identify those responsible for the incident,” he said. – November 27, 2018.