Kuala Lumpur police chief Muhammad Sabtu Osman today warned groups against holding any illegal gathering in Kuala Lumpur to show support for Anwar Ibrahim, who is facing a sodomy charge.

He said police received information last week through SMSes sent by irresponsible individuals asking people to gather and listen to the hearing of the case involving the opposition leader at the Kuala Lumpur High Court.

"So far, police have not received any application from any quarters for a permit to hold a mass gathering... if it takes place tomorrow, it is deemed an illegal gathering under Section 27 of the Police Act 1967," he told reporters at his office in Kuala Lumpur.

Muhammad Sabtu urged the people not to be taken in by the SMSes to attend the gathering as it would cause traffic congestion and could threaten public order and safety.

He said such a gathering could also prevent the smooth process of the law.

He added that police would not hesitate to act against those taking part in such an illegal gathering.

"Please listen and work with us (the police). Don't get involved tomorrow (in the said planned illegal gathering) as it is an unwise move and will cause incovenience to others," he said.

- Bernama