The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has been urged to take stern action against the culprits who spread fake images and information online.

Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Zambry Abdul Kadir said images of the 'tornado' and 'trees falling on several cars' in Lumut had caused panic among the public.

"Those who uploaded the fake images and information on social networking sites are irresponsible.

"They created panic, fear and could threaten public safety. We checked and found that the 'tornado' occurred in Mexico and not in Perak as claimed.

"The MCMC should identify the culprits and take immediate action against them," he told reporters after chairing the state executive council meeting, here, today.

Zambry said it was not the first time that fake images of incidents in Perak were uploaded on social networking sites.

Last month, some people uploaded fake images of wild elephants on the Gerik-Jeli highway, causing panic among the public returning home for the Aidilfitri celebration.

He said such action was meticulously planned to trick the public into believing that the incidents actually occurred.