KUALA LUMPUR: Those planning to hold demonstrations or protests in connection with the Russian-Ukraine conflict are advised to inform the police.

       Wangsa Maju OCPD Supt Ashari Abu Samah said while a protest is not allowed during the National Recovery Plan, the police will assess such applications on a case-by-case basis.

       "By right, we do not allow protests to be held but at the same time, we cannot deny the human rights of those against the current war,” said Supt Ashari.

       "However, they should inform the police prior to having the protest, as we will impose conditions and guidelines," he added when speaking to reporters after an operation in Setapak on Thursday (March 3).

       Supt Ashari said so far, three demonstrations have been held in front of the Russian Embassy since last week.

       "The first is by a group of Ukrainian students, whereby they did not inform the police. However, it was held peacefully and they dispersed when instructed to do so,” he said.

       "The other two demonstrations were by representatives from the Ukrainian Embassy and Parti Sosialis Malaysia (PSM). Both groups informed the police and they abided by our conditions. They gathered not more than 20 minutes and safely dispersed," he said.

       Supt Ashari said he expects more protests or demonstrations to be held as the conflict between Russia and Ukraine continues.

       "Inform the police and we will set the guidelines so that it will be done in an orderly manner. We will facilitate the safety of all parties," he said.

       Supt Ashari also said that the police have stepped up patrols near the Russian Embassy to ensure nothing untoward occurs.

       "The situation so far is under control and we received cooperation from all parties including representatives from the Russian Embassy," he said.