The Road Transport Department has rubbished claims that its personnel had directed several lorry drivers to strip down to their underwear for failing to offer them bribes, as suggested in a photo which went viral on social media over the past few days.

In a statement here today, the RTD said the incident in the photo had actually taken place in May 2015 and involved four personnel of the RTD enforcement station at Mentara in Gua Musang, Kelantan, who were patrolling in Jalan Aring enroute to Tasik Kenyir.

"About 2.30pm, the personnel inspected three semi-trailer lorries parked by the road shoulder, which had obstructed the traffic and there were no drivers in the vehicles," it said.

Upon seeing the RTD personnel, the drivers who were taking a bath at a nearby hill rushed down, wearing just their underwear.

"The drivers sat behind the RTD vehicle as they were ashamed in not wearing clothes and apologised to the RTD personnel.

“The RTD personnel then instructed them to move the vehicles to a more appropriate area and advised them not to repeat the offence.

"Yesterday, one of the drivers lodged a police report, denying the allegation (that they were made to parade in their underwear)," said the statement.

As such, the RTD reminded the public to verify any news and information received with the relevant authorities before disseminating them.

- Bernama