“Inspector Sheila” was arrested in Batu Caves yesterday (31 January), the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) confirmed.
Speculation about her arrest arose after a video showing her being handcuffed by two female police officers began circulating online. In the TikTok video, Sheila could be heard shouting at members of the public, claiming that she had been handcuffed unnecessarily and escorted out of the temple by the officers.
Speaking to the media today (1 February), Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Mohd Khalid Ismail said that the arrest was carried out by police officers on duty in the Batu Caves area in conjunction with the Thaipusam celebrations. He explained that Sheila had caused a commotion and argued with one of the traders before her arrest.
“We believe the situation could have escalated into chaos, so we took action and arrested her,” Khalid said.
The arrest was made under Section 14 of the Minor Offences Act 1955 and Section 186 of the Penal Code for obstructing a public servant from carrying out his or her duties.
According to reports by Sinar Harian and Sin Chew, Khalid also said that Sheila refused to comply with instructions given by police officers who were enforcing crowd control measures. At the time, officers were arranging for devotees to queue before entering the temple, but Sheila allegedly refused to follow the instructions, resulting in a confrontation with one of the officers on duty.
She was arrested at the scene and detained for one day to assist with the investigation.
Khalid added that Sheila, whose real name is Sheila Sharon Steven Kumar, was previously affiliated with PDRM but has experienced several health issues.
He also noted that during the Thaipusam celebrations at Batu Caves, no major incidents were reported, aside from parking issues and minor verbal disputes.
