19 arrested for defying SOPs in CNY gathering

Police arrested 19 people on Sunday night for defying the movement control order (MCO) while celebrating Chinese New Year at a homestay in Taman Suria near Batu Pahat.

Batu Pahat district police chief ACP Ismail Dollah said the 11 men and eight women, aged 20 to 42, were caught playing cards in the 11.45pm raid.

The 19 individuals, who were from Seremban, Batu Pahat and Kluang, had gathered at the rented homestay since Feb 13 to celebrate Chinese New Year.

Police also seized 104 playing cards and RM2,612, Ismail said in a statement today.