More ethnic Indians may be arrested: Malaysia police

8220;We will not go soft on parties who want to threaten the nation8217;s peace and stability,8221; the Star newspaper quoted him as saying.

Musa said police would take more drastic measures if the security situation worsens.

Commenting on the recent rallies in Kuala Lumpur, which were banned by the authorities, Musa said there were signs that the situation could worsen but added that police would only use the Internal Security Act as a last resort.

Under ISA a person can be detained for a long period without trial.

So far 31 Hindraf members have been arrested on charges of attempted murder of a policeman who was injured on November 25 during a demonstration in Kuala Lumpur. The ethnic Indians were protesting against alleged marginalisation of their community, which has been denied by the government.

On Sunday, authorities arrested some lawyers who had taken part in an 8220;illegal march8221; and also 12 opposition members for taking part in another rally in early November.

The protesters had demanded electoral reforms. Many opposition members also participated in the march.

Musa said he would recommend the country8217;s Bar Council that certain lawyers who were charged and found guilty of participating in illegal rallies be barred from practicing law.