Fact Check: Lockdown at Penang Hospital Due to ‘Baby Abduction’ Goes Viral, PDRM Clarifies Incident

Yesterday (4 November), a video went viral online, showcasing a group of people allegedly being blocked from entering Hospital Pulau Pinang (HPP) due to the hospital ‘going into lockdown’ due to an apparent case of a baby being kidnapped from the hospital.

The #UpdateInfo X page shared the video while stating that, “Hospital Pulau Pinang is said to have a case of a baby being kidnapped in the hospital”, leaving many feeling anxious. However, there was no actual kidnapping.

Here’s what really happened

The incident that occurred at HPP was actually just an annual training exercise conducted by the hospital.

According to a report by Malaysia Gazette, the Timur Laut District Deputy Chief of Police, Superintendent Lee Swee Sake, shared that the incident, which took place at around 3 PM, was found to be an emergency exercise to test the readiness of hospital staff in facing such situations.

“The hospital conducts annual training to ensure that all staff are prepared and know the actions to be taken if an actual incident occurs,” he said.

Hence, he advises the public not to spread videos and posts related to the incident, as it could cause misunderstandings.

“The public is asked to refer to authentic information from the authorities and not make any speculation that could affect public order,” he added.

What do you think about this? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comment section.

Also read: 12yo Boy Beaten Up in KL Flat by 3 Adult Men Who Accused Him of Stealing a Power Bank