KUCHING: Authorities have confirmed that no airplane skidded at Kuching International Airport (KIA), contrary to claims circulating on social media yesterday (Feb 20).
Police had discovered a Facebook post by the page ‘Bawang Channel’, which claimed that an AirAsia aircraft had skidded off the tarmac.
The post also included a link allegedly related to the incident, however, checks revealed that it redirected users to a Shopee store selling dates.
Kuching police chief ACP Mohd Farhan Lee Abdullah said that they had contacted the general manager of Malaysia Airports Berhad (MAB) Kuching for verification.
“We have received confirmation that no airplane skidded at KIA.
“I advise the public, especially social media users, to be more cautious and refrain from spreading unverified news, as such actions can cause unnecessary concern and disrupt public order,” he said in a statement.
Spreading false information that causes public mischief, incites crime, or creates fear and alarm is an offense under Section 505 of the Penal Code.
If convicted, offenders face up to two years in prison, a fine, or both.
The public is encouraged to verify information by contacting the Kuching police control centre at 082-24444 or the nearest police station.
