THE recent crippling of a 4-wheel drive vehicle smuggling syndicate is a result of continuous joint effort by Sabah and Sarawak Police to curb cross border crimes.
“I am glad to inform this august house that the government has approved the establishment of an Immigration, Customs, Quarantine and Security Complex at Ba’Kelalan. The complex is expected to be completed and operational by 2018,” said Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Alfred Jabu Numpang.
Reporting on his watching brief on the security of the state, Jabu said that the state government will improve all the police facilities and equipment at the border, including building new posts for General Operations Force (GOF) or army.
“PDRM will tighten the security at the borders, especially in areas with illegal entry points, by carrying out joint operations and roadblocks to curb smuggling activity and illegal activity at the border.”
He added that Sarawak Energy Berhad have placed 16 auxiliary police officers led by a sergeant at Batang Ai Hydro Dam, and will study on how to improve the security needs of the area.
“Police will also continue to eradicate illegal gambling in the Batu Kawa area. Between January and April 24 this year, police made 665 raids in Batu Kawah and Kota Sentosa, resulting in 123 arrests, 590 computer units seized and RM11,592 in cash confiscated.”
PDRM will use Prevention of Crime Act 1959 (Act 297) to combat gangsterism and loan sharks in the state.
“With this law, police can prevent these groups from committing crime or carrying out their illegal activities. So far, four people have been placed under supervision order.”
In other matters, Jabu reported that security at the Kuching Waterfront and its vicinity will be enhanced by PDRM by the presence of policemen on duty around the clock.
Regarding the Second Hand Dealers Act 1946, police have received 113 applications, and 32 have been approved. Enforcement came into effect on April 1 this year, after giving traders a one year grace period to register.