A special team has been formed to investigate the spate of vandalism cases involving Hindu temples in Penang, said inspector-general of police Khalid Abu Bakar.

Speaking to Malaysiakini, he said the team, which comprises officers from the Bukit Aman federal headquarters and state police, would report to him directly on the developments.

The team is headed by Penang deputy police chief A Thaiveegan.

Khalid also expressed concern over the incidents, which he warned could lead to undesirable consequences.

"I am worried, and that is why I decided to form this special team. We will not tolerate those who disrespect the right to religious freedom.

"Vandalising places of worship is a serious offence and has the potential to cause religious unrest. I will not allow that to happen under my watch," he said.

Asked if the cases could be the work of those involved in terrorist groups or inspired by the likes of Islamic State (IS), Khalid said there is no evidence to suggest this at present.

"Based on our investigations, we haven't found any evidence to link the two. However, we are not ruling out any possibilities," he added.

At the same time, Khalid said temple committees must also take measures to avoid unwanted incidents such as installing closed-circuit television cameras (CCTVS) in the premises to serve as a deterrent.

The police chief also asked the Hindu community to remain calm, and allow the police to track down the culprits.

"I understand the anger and disappointment. I know it is saddening to see this happen to a place of worship. But we must remain calm.

"I promise that we are doing our best to identify and apprehend the perpetrators," he said.

In the latest incident, intruders smashed three deities in the Sri Muneeswarar temple at Jalan Kudin, Gelugor, yesterday.

This brought the number of temples desecrated in the past two months to four, and Penang Deputy Chief Minister II P Ramasamy said it gave the impression of hate crime.