KUALA LUMPUR - Independent preacher Zamri Vinoth was hauled to the magistrate’s court here today in handcuffs to face charges linked to a planned gathering at a shopping mall last month.
Zamri, whose full name is Muhammad Zamri Vinoth Kalimuthu, arrived at about 9.10am clad in a blue coat after being transported in an SUV.
The activist, who is also the coordinator of the Gerakan Anti Rumah Anutan Haram (Garah) rally, briefly greeted members of the media who had been waiting at the court lobby since 8am.
It is understood that he will be charged under Section 505(b) of the Penal Code for making statements conducive to public mischief, with intent to cause or which are likely to cause public fear or alarm.
Zamri also took the opportunity to greet reporters and photographers, saying: “InsyaAllah, let us together build a peaceful and harmonious Malaysia. Assalamualaikum.”
Previously, police were tracking Zamri and fellow activist Tamim Dahri, who were believed to be in Thailand, in efforts to bring them back to face charges.
Bukit Aman Criminal Investigation Department director Datuk M. Kumar said the operation involved cooperation with Thai authorities.
Checks found that both individuals had left the country through legal channels into Thailand.
Zamri had earlier denied allegations that he was attempting to flee following controversy linking him to inciting violence.
Instead, he maintained that he had no reason to do so and was prepared to cooperate with authorities if required.
In a Facebook post on Saturday, he also said he was willing to meet the Inspector-General of Police to explain the matter.