JERTEH: The search for Ariffin Mohamad, 65, better known as Ayah Pin, entered its sixth day with no sign of the elusive leader of the Sky Kingdom deviationist sect.
It is learnt that the police have been combing the hills fringing the Sky Kingdom commune in Kam- pung Batu 13 since Monday as Ayah Pin is believed to be hiding there.
A police helicopter was spotted circling above the commune yesterday afternoon for about 15 minutes.
State Religious Affairs Department commissioner Shaikh Harun Ismail challenged Ayah Pin to honour his word on July 4 that he would not run away if the authorities sought him.
Ayah Pin had made the remarks in an exclusive interview with The Star following a raid in the commune on July 2.
Shaik Harun urged Ayah Pin to surrender to safeguard his dignity.
He gave an assurance that nothing “untoward” would happen if he gave himself up as he was still protected under the country’s laws.
The department, he said, would only charge him in court just like his followers.
“If he thinks that his teachings are correct, he can put forth his arguments in court and engage a lawyer to defend himself,” he said.