Marang: The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) has firmly denied claims made by Kota Bharu MP Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan regarding an alleged raid by its elite team at Masjid Rusila, Marang, on September 19.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, MMEA Director-General Admiral Datuk Mohd Rosli Abdullah emphasized that the accusation lacks foundation and could potentially damage the reputation of the security forces while affecting the morale of the elite team operators. He clarified that the agency has never used any place of worship for its operations. The activities conducted were part of a tactical training syllabus for the special team, executed under the guidance of senior instructors and in strict adherence to the agency’s Standard Operating Procedures (SOP).
Mohd Rosli further explained that the mosque was used as a resting place for trainees to perform ‘iktikaf’ (spiritual retreat) after Asar prayers before they received their next assignment. The mosque management was informed beforehand, ensuring that the congregation and religious activities were not disturbed.
He assured that no forceful or inappropriate actions took place, as alleged, and the trainees were simply engaged in prayer within the mosque. Mohd Rosli highlighted that religious elements are incorporated into the training to fortify the moral character and integrity of the enforcement officers and special operations personnel.
The training of the Special Task and Rescue (STAR) Team aims to develop maritime officers who are not only skilled and brave but also uphold strong moral values and are dedicated to serving their religion, race, and country. Mohd Rosli described the allegation as a malicious slander against the MMEA.
He also mentioned that the misunderstanding was resolved after the mosque’s management received further clarification and issued an apology. Previously, Takiyuddin expressed concerns in the Dewan Rakyat regarding the alleged training exercise at the mosque, which reportedly caused apprehension among the congregation.