GEORGE TOWN: A state assemblyman has lodged a report, urging police to investigate a viralled WhatsApp message on needles found in bananas sold in several markets in Fettes Park, Jelutong and Batu Lanchang.
Following the spread of the news, DAP’s Batu Lanchang assemblyman Ong Ah Teong, 48, said Penangites now fear for their safety.
Speaking to newsmen after lodging the report at the northeast district police headquarters here this afternoon, Ong said he too was worried, especially if the news is true, as it involved innocent lives.
“As such, I hope the police will launch a probe into the matter to allay the people’s fears. If there is no truth to the claims, that the people can be at peace.
“Who knows? Maybe there are individuals out there trying to sabotage others’ business as bananas are a hot selling item now, with the ongoing Nine Emperor Gods Festival; with the Chinese devotees going on a vegetarian diet,” he said.
Ong said he too received the WhatsApp message with the photo of a needle stuck inside a banana, and the voice of an unknown woman speaking in Hokkien, alleging that her friend became a victim after she bought the banana in Batu Lanchang.
“I have checked with the residents’ association there to look for the victim but to no avail. So far, no one has sought treatment for eating banana with needle.
“I really hope the police will investigate the matter thoroughly,” he added.
Meanwhile, northeast district police chief Assistant Commissioner Che Zaimani Che Awang confirmed receiving a report on the matter.
“We will launch an investigation and also hope that the victim would come forward to lodge a report,” he added.
