Increasing motorcycle theft cases a cause for concern — Padawan police

KUCHING: The crime index for the Padawan district saw an increase of 32 cases between January 1 and June 18 this year compared to the corresponding period last year.

Padawan district police chief Supt Aidil Bolhassan said vehicular theft, especially motorcycles, contributed to this spike of 61 percent.

“I urge the Padawan community to please be alert, as the number of motorcycle thefts are a cause for concern,” he told reporters after officiating a general roll call, promotion ceremony and Excellent Service Award presentation held at the Kota Sentosa Police Training School Hall here yesterday.

Aidil also reminded Padawan residents to make use of the ‘Op Selamat 2017 Balik Kampung’ forms – available at all police station – to notify the police of their planned period of absence during the coming Aidilfitri celebration so that patrols can be scheduled for their neighbourhood.

“We only allow 10 percent of our 405 officers and personnel to go on festive leave, so we have enough left on duty for Hari Raya and Op Selamat,” he said.

Earlier in his speech, Aidil said Padawan’s rapid urban development has attracted many young people to move there, thus contributing to the increase in crime.

“Our responsibility in eradicating crime and keeping peace has gotten bigger and more complicated,” he said, urging his personnel to equip themselves with enough knowledge and familiarity with the law to navigate complex situations.

He also gave stern warnings to all personnel not to get involved in corruption, drug abuse, gambling, or any other breaches of disciplines.

The ceremony saw 15 officers promoted and 37 others receiving Excellent Service Awards.