The administrator of a Facebook account is being investigated on suspicion of spreading false news claiming that the deputy prime minister has resigned, according to the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC).

MCMC, in collaboration with Federal Police (Bukit Aman) Commercial Crime Investigation Department (CCID), recently raided the suspect's house in Alam Damai, Cheras in connection with the case.

The commission in a statement today said initial investigations revealed that the suspect was using a Facebook account under the name 'Melayu Solo', of which he was the administrator.

MCMC said that the investigation was being conducted under section 233(1)(a) of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998.

If convicted, the suspect can face a fine not exceeding RM50,000 or imprisonment not exceeding one year, or both.

In a separate statement, MCMC also informed that the administrator of the Facebook account 'Hanizam Bin Mohd Yunus' was being investigated under the same section of the Act.

This was regarding the dissemination of false contents on Facebook which claimed that Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) personnel were involved in military operations and the war in Yemen, said the MCMC. 

MCMC said it collaborated with the CCID as well as the Police Headquarters in Nilai, Negri Sembilan, to raid the suspect's house in Lenggeng recently.

- Bernama