Police have issued a stern warning against anyone planning to disrupt or create chaos during the Thaipusam festival at Batu Caves on Saturday.

Gombak police chief ACP Abdul Rahim Abdullah said police would not hesitate to take action on those involved in activities that could threaten the peace and public order.

"We will beef up security as well as monitor the Batu Caves area and the movements of the public so that the activities will run smoothly, with no untoward incidents.

thaipusam batu caves 250105 kavadi 1 "Action will be taken on anyone found disrupting the peace, including gangsters and thugs," he told reporters at Batu Caves yesterday.

Abdul Rahim said they would also take action on individuals who illegally impose parking fees in the area.

He advised the public to heed police orders and avoid parking in areas that will obstruct traffic.

"Congestion at Batu Caves will be unavoidable throughout the day, so we urge everyone to obey the law.

"Parking around the area is free, so we encourage the public to report to us about individuals charging parking fees," he said.

Abdul Rahim said 1,000 police personnel would be deployed to monitor the 1.5 million people that day.

He added that several roads would be closed in stages, including the traffic light junction at the Amaniah Mosque heading to Jalan Batu Caves Lama, Sungai Tua heading to Jalan Batu Caves Lama and Jalan Perusahaan.

- Bernama