BATU CAVES: Use of drones around the Sri Subramaniam Temple in Batu Caves will be prohibited throughout Thaipusam.

       Selangor police chief Comm Datuk Arjunaidi Mohamed said drone flights would be prohibited there due to safety reasons.

       “There may be some individuals who were planning to use drones to get a birds-eye view of the area but we will not allow it.

       “We have the necessary equipment to track down anyone who attempts to fly drones within the temple area,” he told reporters at Batu Caves yesterday.

       Acting Selangor CID chief Asst Comm R. Supramaniam and Gombak OCPD Asst Comm Zainal Mohamed Mohamed also attended the press conference.

       He said they would also take action against anyone who attempted to fly drones there under Section 447 of the Penal Code for committing criminal trespass.

       “We have over 1,500 personnel on duty to ensure public safety.

       “These personnel will be on duty here until Jan 21,” he said.

       Comm Arjunaidi added that personnel from the Health Ministry, Fire and Rescue Department and Civil Defence Force would also be assisting the police, at the scene, during the festival’s duration.

       He advised the public to comply with the standard operating procedure, especially the wearing of face masks and observing physical distancing.