The scene of the accident involving the Perodua Myvi and Pelau woman.
LAHAD DATU: A minor road accident yesterday involving a sea gypsy, known locally as Pelau, has sparked call for action to keep beggars off the streets here.
Most netizens blamed the Pelau who are always seen on the street begging for money without any concern for their safety or that of other road users.
They said the issue involving the Pelau has dragged on for a long time and solutions need to be found to prevent such incidents from recurring.
Commenting on the video uploaded by a Facebook user, a netizen said the incident should serve as an eye opener to all parties, especially the Pelau and the government.
He said the issue involving the Pelau not only endangered them but also the local people, especially road users.
Another netizen said immediate action should be taken against the Pelau as they are causing more and more problems to the local people.
The Pelau are also allegedly involved in other problems such as glue sniffing activities and vandalism which has tarnished the image of the district.
“It is hoped the authorities will take action. This issue involving the Pelau has been voiced several times but the actions taken are only temporary measures,” the user wrote.
Meanwhile, District Police Chief, ACP Nasri Mansor in a statement said the 56-year-old Pelau only suffered body pains after she was hit by a Perodua Myvi car at the junction of Bandar Sri Perdana.
In the 10.15 am incident, the 52-year-old driver was heading towards Lahad Datu town from Taman Aman when the Pelau woman suddenly crossed the road and knocked the Perodua Myvi’s door.
The Pelau who was believed to be on the street begging for money was taken to the hospital for treatment.
Nasri added that the case was being investigated under Rule 3 (1) LN166/59.