The police today confirmed that a viral video on social media that showed the heads of two women being shaved by a group of men for allegedly having stolen goods from a shop did not take place in Malaysia.

Police head of corporate communications Datin Asmawati Ahmad said the incident occurred last year in Maracaibo, Venezuela, and the video was circulated in Malaysia by irresponsible people.

"Following the circulation of the video, several responses of a racist nature were shared on social media and other communication channels.

"The police wish to advise the public to exercise prudence in assessing any news on social media or other communication channels and not fall prey to the ill intentions of anyone," she said in a statement today.

Asmawati also advised the public not to play on issues of a racial or religious nature, saying as this could undermine harmony in the country.

-- BERNAMA