GEORGE TOWN: The Penang Island City Council (MBPP) has advised the public to be cautious and not be deceived by fake monks operating in several areas, especially markets and food complexes.
MBPP Public Health Standing Committee alternate chairman Tan Soo Siang said MBPP had found that syndicates were behind the activities of bogus monks who solicit alms from the public at these locations.
"These fake monks often frequent 12 areas, including Lebuh Cecil Hawker Site, Jelutong Market, Batu Lanchang Market and Food Complex, Bayan Baru Market and Food Complex, Ayer Itam Market, and Padang Tembak Market and Food Complex.
"In addition, they are also found at Medan Angsana Complex, Jalan Chowrasta Market, Pulau Tikus Market, Lebuh Pitt Complex, Lorong Stewart Complex and Lorong Baru Hawker Site," she said in a statement today.
Tan said to tackle the issue, MBPP had implemented several preventive measures, including joint operations with law enforcement agencies such as the police and immigration.
"If members of the public wish to offer assistance, they are encouraged to give food instead of money to these fake monks," she said.– BERNAMA
