The Dataran Merdeka New Year’s Eve countdown and fireworks display ushering in 2014 were abruptly called off just 30 minutes from the stroke of midnight, due to what police officials say was the unruly behaviour of #TURUN protesters.
From as early as 9.30pm on New Year’s Eve, thousands of demonstrators protesting against recent price hikes, subsidy cuts and the impending introduction of the GST streamed towards the historic square, defying warnings from Putrajaya not to participate in the rally.
By 11pm the throng had pushed its way through police barricades standing between them and the main Dataran area, where live music performances were being held to celebrate the New Year.
Kuala Lumpur police chief Datuk Mohmad Salleh cited several instances, including one where plastic bottles were hurled at KL Mayor Datuk Seri Ahmad Phesal Talib and performers onstage, as the reason the planned festivities were cut short and the fireworks display shelved completely. Several protesters were alleged to have tried getting onstage.
He also cited the discovery of several Rambo knives and parangs in the nearby Dayabumi building as causes for alarm.
The police have pledged to complete their investigation in a week, before handing it to the Attorney General’s Chamber for subsequent action.
However, Mohmad Salleh expressed happiness that the crowd eventually dispersed after midnight without any untoward incident.
