Malaysia police launch probe into alleged plot to topple government

Malaysia's top police official said on Friday authorities were investigating an alleged conspiracy to "topple the government and sabotage national stability".

The alleged plot involved a local influential figure as well as an international media agency, Inspector-General of Police Mohd Khalid Ismail said in a statement. He did not name the person or the media agency.

The investigation was being carried out under laws against undermining parliamentary democracy, an offence that carries a maximum jail term of 20 years upon conviction, he said.

Police have not released details about the alleged plot.

Government spokesperson and Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil told a regular press conference the issue was "a very serious matter" but did not elaborate, adding, "We will leave it to the police to conduct a full investigation."

The Attorney-General's Chambers in a statement called for the probe to be conducted comprehensively and professionally without interference.