The police have yet to record a statement from Agriculture and Agro-based Industry Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob over his controversial Facebook posting.

A police spokesperson said this is due to the minister's busy work schedule.

The spokesperson added that his statement would be recorded as soon as possible.

The police were supposed to record his statement yesterday, according to Inspector-General of Police Khalid Abu Bakar.

However, the police chief also noted that scheduling it would be a factor due to the cabinet meeting.

Ismail is being investigated under Section 505 of the Penal Code for uttering statements conducive to public mischief.

Will police act switfly?

The minister had courted trouble with his posting that called on the Malays to boycott Chinese traders because the latter did not reduce their prices.

Numerous quarters, including MCA and MIC, criticised the minister, with the opposition urging Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak to give him the boot.

Following the cabinet meeting, the Prime Minister's Office had cleared Ismail, claiming that his reprimand was aimed at errant traders of all races.

Ismail himself accused his critics as being petty and refused to apologise.

The police, on the other hand, have often been criticised for acting swiftly when it comes to opposition politicians and civil society leaders but dragging their feet when investigating ruling politicians.