Crime cases drop in adopted ‘taman’
SANDAKAN: A programme called the ‘taman’ adoption programme by the Royal Malaysian Police (PRRM) Sandakan police headquarters (IPD Sandakan), was a success when the first adopted ‘taman’, the People’s Housing Project (PPR) Sungai Manila Mile 12 here, showed an obvious drop in criminal cases after its implementation.
Sandakan district police chief ACP Mohd Azhar Hamin revealed that before the implementation of the ‘taman’ adoption programme, from January until August 29 this year, the PPR Sungai Manila recorded five criminal cases including three breaking and entering cases and two robbery cases.
After being ‘adopted’ by PDRM Sandakan, from August 30 until December 21, PPR Sungai Manila only recorded one domestic violence case.
“I am happy to note that the programme was a success and we plan to continue with this programme in other PPR in Sandakan. This is the result of the cooperation of its residents, in which they were involved in patrolling and sharing of information.
“We focus on residential areas that are prone to criminal and drug activities. Once we decide on a ‘taman’ to adopt, we put more concentrated approach in eradicating crime in the area by frequent patrols and meetings with the residents,” he said.
Azhar said this after the IPD Sandakan December 2018 monthly meeting held at IPD station here, yesterday.
In his opening speech, Azhar said 2018 had been a challenging year for PDRM as police integrity had been questioned many times by the public, and corruption and misuse of power were among the issues.
“This year has seen the most number of police personnel being investigated by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission. For example, the latest misconduct by our personnel happened this month where two Sabah police personnel were caught for drug activities. I hope none of us in Sandakan will be involved in such an activity.
“In order for us to gain back public trust and confidence, we must instil in ourselves a sense of responsibility, discipline and always follow the standard operating procedure (SOP) when carrying out our duties.
“This year we have worked hard to gain public trust through our community policing programme. Our goal is to create cooperation from the public in reducing the crime rate, drug activities and other illegal activities,” he said.
The meeting ended with several media representatives receiving appreciation certificates from IPD Sandakan.
Azhar said the certificates were to show appreciation to media practitioners who had played an important role in helping the police to spread news on all their activities and achievements.