“Yesterday, I clearly said we will not compromise with anyone who flouts SOPs,” he said at a press conference.

“Based on what happened today… as the Penang police chief, I want to apologise to all Penang residents for our failure in detecting this earlier.”

He estimated around 200 people had gathered outside the mosque in a video clip that has gone viral.

Penang is currently under Phase 2 of the national recovery plan, with the Penang Islamic Religious Council (MAINPP) limiting Aidiladha prayers to not more than 150 worshippers at state and district mosques, 100 at kariah mosques and 50 at suraus.

While he said he knew many were keen to fulfil their religious obligations, Shuhaily was adamant that Covid-19 SOPs should be maintained at all times.

He also urged mosque and surau caretakers to report violations of Covid-19 protocols through the police’s hotline at 04-222-1722.

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