JOHOR BARU: Johor police are tidying up investigations into the sexual harassment case involving Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (Bersatu) assemblyman Rasman Ithnain.

       State police chief Comm Datuk Kamarul Zaman Mamat said that even though the police would like to complete their investigation by this week, some matters still need to be looked into.

       “We have discussed the case with the police legal division that has advised the investigation team to tidy up its investigation papers further.

       “So far, about 11 individuals have been called up by the police to help with the ongoing investigations,” he said when met after attending a police operation on drug activities at Kampung Pandan here on Friday.

       On Tuesday, Rasman claimed a political conspiracy led to a police report being lodged against him by a fellow party member accusing him of sexual harassment.

       “I deny the accusations made in the report, which are a political conspiracy and an attempt to bring down my dignity and tarnish my reputation as an elected representative,” he said in a statement.

       “Such a political conspiracy will not weaken my spirit to fight and carry out the responsibilities that have been entrusted to me through the people’s mandate.”

       The Sedili assemblyman added that he had spoken to his lawyers and would not hesitate to take legal action against anyone who attempts to smear his name and image.

       He said he found out on Monday that a report had been lodged against him by a Kota Tinggi Bersatu Srikandi committee member.

       Rasman said he would give his full cooperation throughout the investigation process to ensure that justice prevails.

       On Monday, a woman in her 20s lodged a police report claiming that Rasman had sexually harassed her on more than one occasion.

       Rasman won the Sedili seat on an Umno ticket in the general election in 2018 but later defected to Bersatu.

       Meanwhile, Comm Kamarul Zaman said the drug sweep was carried out throughout the state at about 3am on Friday which led to the arrest of 220 suspected drug addicts.

       “Police rounded up 220 suspected addicts during the operation; all males between the ages of 21 and 45 years, including three foreigners.

       “We will also be working closely with other enforcement agencies, including local councils, to eradicate hotspots in Johor known for drug activities,” he added.