Police gear up for festive traffic operation
KOTA KINABALU: Police reminded the people to check their vehicles before travelling to their home towns and villages for Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebration, which is in about three weeks’ time.
Kota Kinabalu police chief ACP M Chandra said Ops Selamat, a road traffic operation to ensure road safety during peak festive seasons, is normally conducted a week before Raya.
“Hence, this year we can expect to launch on July 8. Today (Monday), we start the pre-Ops Selamat operation to remind the public to prepare, plan and manage their journey early to possibly avoid peak traffic periods.
“Motorists can start servicing their vehicles from now so that they are in conditions, safe enough for long distance travelling when it’s time to ‘balik kampung’,” he said.
Chandra also reminded those who will be leaving their homes overnight to inform the nearest police station.
The police chief was speaking to reporters after a meetand-greet walkabout at the Ramadan bazaar in Sembulan here on Monday, after which he and his officers distributed ‘buka puasa’ meals to traffic and patrol officers on duty and joined them in the simple ceremony.
“A simple gesture such as this is to show appreciation to police officers who are always on call of duty, in spite of the fasting. They rarely or may never have the chance to ‘buka puasa’ with their families because of their duty, as crimes still happen, traffic congestions still happen. Our officers are still needed on the road and by the public,” he said.
Pointing out an incident involving a police patrol officer who was just about to break his fast but had to leave his opened but untouched meal when he had to break up a fight at Taman Seri Kepayan on Sunday evening, Chandra praised the cop’s dedication and sacrifices.
He also said that the reception from the stall operators at the Sembulan Ramadan bazaar was an indication that Sembulan is no longer a ‘hotspot’.
“Although there are still minor crimes happening here but so far, the people here feel safe enough. I think it’s no longer a hotspot,” he said.