LAHAD DATU: The police here yesterday launched the Motorcycle Patrol Unit to combat crime activities in the district.
District police chief Assistant Commissioner of Police Shamsuddin Mat said the unit would focus on three high-crime residential areas at Taman Aman, Bandar Sri Perdana and Fajar.
Shamsudin said the unit would patrol 24 hours in pairs at the areas to ensure the safety of the residents.
“The patrol unit also aims to prevent people from becoming victims of crime and with the availability of patrol activity, the people in the area could provide strong support to the police and get themselves involved in crime prevention activities,” he said after launching the unit in conjunction with the 207th Police Day celebration at the district police headquarters yesterday.
Shamsudin also disclosed that eight men were arrested by the police on suspicion of being members of a motorcycle theft syndicate in the district.
He said 49 motorcycle theft cases had been reported from January to March.
“Thirteen stolen motorcycles have been recovered and eight suspects aged between 20 and 30, believed involved in the motorcycle theft activities, have been arrested.
“Two of the suspects were detained as suspected buyers of the stolen motorcycles,” he said.
Shamsudin added that the motorcycle thefts were being investigated under Sections 414 and 411 of the Penal Code for disposing of and possessing of stolen property.
Earlier, Shamsudin presented certificates of appreciation to 58 members of the public and 12 police personnel in conjunction with Police Day.
“In conjunction with the 207th Police Day, we will be having some joint activities with the people such as football, badminton, mini-marathon, futsal and golf tournaments.
“Members of the public are welcome to join us to further strengthen the relationship and cooperation between the public and the police,” he added.
Also present at the celebration were Lahad Datu district officer Iman Ali, assistant district officer Juraimin Jadil, former Silam member of parliament Datuk Salleh Kalbi, Umno Wanita leader Mizmah Appehdullah, community leaders and government officials.