Kelantan police confirm that they raided a programme linked to LGBTQ+ individuals involving more than 20 men at a bungalow in Jalan Kemumin, Kota Bahru, in mid-June.

State police chief Yusoff Mamat said the operation was conducted based on public information and intelligence gathered by a special team following complaints about a food-themed gathering believed to be organised specifically for the gay community.

“Initial information we received indicated that the event was attended by over 100 local men, but when the raid was conducted at around 1am, most had already left, leaving only over 20 individuals on site.

“The raid was carried out after intelligence showed the gathering started at night and was expected to continue into the morning, with a fee charged for participation. The event was promoted through social media,” he was quoted as saying by Bernama.

Yusoff said that during the inspection of the premises, hundreds of condoms and several boxes of HIV medication were found in a special room believed to be used by the organisers for storage.

Additionally, investigations into the mobile phones of three individuals uncovered pornographic videos with gay content.

“Out of the more than 20 people detained, only three were charged as they were found in possession of pornographic material on their phones. Investigations also revealed that no sexual acts took place during the raid, and all individuals were still fully clothed.

“However, the condoms and HIV medication found indicate they were preparations in case anything occurred,” he added.

Civil servants among participants

He said those involved were in their 20s to 30s and came from various backgrounds, including civil servants.

“This gay gathering is the first of its kind to take place in Kelantan, and the police successfully detected and raided the meeting,” he said.

Yusoff also disclosed that some participants were found to be HIV-positive and were taking medication as a preventive measure.

“Police will continue to monitor the movements of such gay groups as we are concerned they may become more active and bold,” he said.