Malaysiakini’s Nantha Kumar, Hariz Mohd and Shahrin Aizat Noorshahrizam were questioned over their sources, among others.

They however chose to answer a majority of the 27 questions in court if they were charged, according to their lawyer, Rajsurian Pillai.

“I think everyone can understand and respect it, including the police,” Rajsurian told the media outside the Dang Wangi police headquarters.

He said police had questioned the three journalists for an hour and 15 minutes from 2.30pm.

They are being investigated under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act for improper use of network facilities or services, and Section 505(b) of the Penal Code for publication of statements conducive to public mischief.

The article on Tuesday quoted a police source as saying deputy inspector-general of police Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay and Bukit Aman criminal investigation department director Shuhaily Zain would be transferred to head other agencies.

Inspector-general of Police Razarudin Husain subsequently dismissed the claims.

Two days ago, government spokesman Fahmi Fadzil said Putrajaya respected the media’s right to protect their sources.