KUALA LUMPUR, March 19 — Police have deployed some 8,600 policemen nationwide to ensure the public adhere to the movement control order, The Star Online reported today.
Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Abdul Hamid Bador said the personnel on duty were tasked to perform checks while reminding the people to abide by the rules and regulations stipulated in the control order.
“The personnel have been busy since Wednesday performing checks as well as setting up roadblocks.
“At this stage, we are advising people to maintain good hygiene, as well as abiding by the regulations in the control order.
“I hope the people can cooperate with the authorities as we don’t want the virus to spread further, ” he was quoted to have told reporters after making a surprise visit to police personnel manning a roadblock near Kampung Pandan, here today.
Abdul Hamid said more policemen would be deployed throughout the control order period, from March 18 to 31.
“There are a lot of counters for traffic summonses that have been closed, so we will have additional personnel.
“They will be roped in to join the task force formed during this control order, ” he said.
The English daily reported that a total of 504 roadblocks have been set up since Wednesday.
“The Armed Forces are also ready to facilitate us in monitoring the situation during the control order period, and I welcome their assistance. I will discuss with the Armed Forces chief in terms of deployment,” Abdul Hamid was quoted.
Abdul Hamid said the awareness level and cooperation among the public are at 60 per cent and had hoped that it would increase.
He said the police would conduct an analysis on the response from the public regarding the control order.
“I know I cannot get 100 per cent but if we reach 95 per cent, it is good enough. People must realise that the threat of the virus is real and it is not made up,” he said, adding that if the situation worsens, the authorities would have to take more drastic action.
“I don’t want it to reach a stage where the police have to detain people. The people should not be selfish, avoid travelling if you don’t have to, as travelling might increase the risk of infection. Stay at home.”
