JOHOR BARU: Only seven temples in Johor are allowed to carry out the chariot procession for Thaipusam this year.

       State police chief Comm Datuk Kamarul Zaman Mamat explained that a total of 26 temples had been granted permission from the police to hold the festival.

       “From the 26 temples, only seven are allowed to carry out the procession with a maximum participation of only 50 people.

       “We have done the necessary preparations to ensure that the celebration could run smoothly and safely, based on the standard operating procedure that had been outlined by the government.”

       Speaking to reporters yesterday, Comm Kamarul said police had held meetings with the temple committees to ensure that the festival could be held in accordance with the SOP.

       “All district police chiefs have been instructed to monitor the situation in their respective areas,” he added.

       He noted that the police would be stationed at the temples to monitor the situation and to assist temple committees in ensuring the SOP is being followed.

       On a separate matter, Comm Kamarul said police had foiled an attempt to conceal fireworks valued at about RM350,000 behind a telephone shop here.

       He said the fireworks were seized during a raid at Taman Mutiara Mas, Skudai, at about 3pm on Sunday.