By Ashwin Kumar
SHAH ALAM, March 31 — The reduced number of arrests of those failing to comply with the movement control order (MCO) shows a positive sign on compliance of the order.
Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob said a total of 742 people were arrested yesterday during police patrols and at roadblocks across the country for flouting the MCO.
This was a decrease of 86 arrests compared to Sunday.
“The day before (Sunday), 828 people were arrested for defying the MCO. There is a positive decline here.
“I would like to see the trend to continue as this would mean that the public is more aware of the importance of abiding by all the directives given.
“I hope people will comply with the order. Do not let your ignorant attitude lead you to prison,” said Ismail at a televised press conference, after chairing the special task force meeting in Putrajaya, today.
Ismail Sabri said the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) and Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) have conducted 1,547 roadblocks nationwide and checked 383,488 vehicles.
“The authorities have also conducted 22,586 impromptu spot checks as of yesterday,” he said.
He said with the implementation of the second phase of the MCO, which begins tomorrow, new standard operating procedures that are stricter will be in place for the police and army to enforce.
