Suspended Cop “Inspector Sheila” Arrested After Thaipusam Disturbance at Batu Caves
Arrest during Thaipusam celebrations
A suspended police officer known publicly as “Inspector Sheila” was arrested early Saturday morning after getting into an argument with traders during Thaipusam celebrations at Batu Caves.
The incident occurred at around 4am on 31 January, when crowds had already gathered at the temple complex for the annual Hindu festival.
Police say action taken to prevent escalation
Inspector-General of Police Mohd Khalid Ismail said the woman, identified as Sheila Sharon Steven Kumar, was detained because the situation risked escalating into a larger disturbance.
“We believe it could have caused a commotion, so we took action,” he said while speaking to reporters during a community policing programme at the Sri Subramaniar Swamy Temple.
The 47-year-old was remanded for one day and later released on bail on the same day.
Investigations under public order laws
According to police, Sheila is being investigated under two laws: one relating to obstructing public servants in the course of their duties, and another concerning behaviour that could disrupt public order.
Police are currently awaiting instructions from the Deputy Public Prosecutor on the next steps in the case.
Despite the incident, authorities confirmed that Thaipusam celebrations proceeded smoothly, with approximately 1,400 security personnel deployed to manage an estimated 1.4 to 1.5 million visitors.
Videos of arrest circulate online
Videos showing Sheila being handcuffed by two female police officers quickly spread on social media.
In the footage, she can be heard making remarks that some described as confrontational, including thanking officers for arresting her on Thaipusam and suggesting that the police were jealous of her public profile.
Social media users also alleged that she had been approaching members of the public and asking to see their identity cards prior to the arrest.
History of past controversies
Sheila has been suspended from police duty since June 2023. Her suspension followed allegations of insulting another officer and threatening an elderly woman.
She has since been linked to multiple incidents involving alleged obstruction of police duties and public disturbances at various locations. Some of these cases are still pending in court, while others have been dropped or remain under review.
Earlier this year, Sheila also drew public attention after stating that she had converted to Islam in preparation for marriage.
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