Former top cop backs Sosma for terror cases, rejects ISA return

Former Deputy Inspector-General of Police Ayob Khan has thrown his support behind the continued application of Sosma in counter-terrorism operations, citing the legislation's value in allowing investigators adequate time to probe intricate cases. His comments come as Malaysia continues to balance security concerns with civil liberties in its approach to combating extremism. Ayob's position underscores the government's reliance on Sosma as a key tool in the law enforcement arsenal, particularly for cases involving networked terror operations that require extensive investigative groundwork. The former senior officer stopped short of endorsing a return to the Internal Security Act, which was repealed in 2012, suggesting that existing powers under Sosma remain sufficient for current security needs. His remarks reflect ongoing deliberation within security circles about the appropriate legal frameworks needed to address evolving terrorism threats while maintaining democratic safeguards.