Inspector-general of police Khalid Abu Bakar's policing on social media Twitter has catapulted himself to international stardom as his antics earned him a spot in BBC's coverage.

In an article by BBC titled "What is Malaysia's top cop doing on Twitter?" yesterday, it quoted Human Rights Watch Asia division deputy director Phil Robertson ( left ) describing Khalid as someone who "patrols the Twittersphere like a shark in open water".

The BBC report noted that critics have contrasted Khalid's action on the internet against those opposing the government and those in the government.

For example, it said, Agriculture and Agro-based Minister Ismail Sabri was only interviewed by police via telephone for calling a boycott on Chinese traders while lawyer Eric Paulsen was arrested for questioning hudud on Twitter.

Only opposition leaders cause trouble

The report also highlighted Khalid's reaction on Twitter towards lawyer Michelle Yesudas who had asked the top cop to act against rape threats directed at radio presenter for criticising hudud.

Instead, BBC pointed out Khalid warned Yesudas in a Tweet not to make people restless and asked that she explain her call.

"But Khalid maintains he acts only against those who break the law and claims only opposition leaders are 'causing trouble'," said the report.