KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA March 31, 2026 – Dang Wangi District Police have arrested 25 individuals, including one local woman and one Filipino man, believed to be involved in illegal street photography activities (known locally as ‘ulat foto’ or photo touts) around the Petronas Twin Towers promenade (KLCC).
The media briefing was held today by ACP Sazalee bin Hj. Adam, Dang Wangi District Police Chief, together with Supt Nuzulan bin Mohd Din, Deputy District Police Chief, and other district leadership.
According to ACP Sazalee, the special operation was conducted last Monday and resulted in the detention of 23 local men, one local woman, and one 16- to 48-year-old Filipino man. All suspects are being investigated under Section 148 and Section 324 of the Penal Code.
Investigations are also being carried out under Regulation 25(1)(n) of the National Registration Regulations 1990. Checks with the National Registration Department (JPN) revealed that the fingerprints of the holders did not match the identity cards they were using, raising doubts about the authenticity of the identification documents belonging to all the suspects.
‘Ulat foto’ refers to unlicensed street photographers who aggressively approach tourists in popular areas like KLCC, often offering to take photos without proper licensing, sometimes involving overcharging or other undesirable practices.
ACP Sazalee stressed that police will continue operations and monitoring in tourist hotspots to curb such activities. He urged the public to report any suspicious behaviour, including ‘ulat foto’ operations, to the police for immediate action.
This arrest is part of ongoing efforts by police and local authorities to ensure the KLCC area remains safe and comfortable for tourists and visitors, in line with the #kearahKLsejahtera and #keepKLsafe campaigns.
Investigations are ongoing, and all suspects remain in police custody.
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