Cops mull targeted mapping to curb illegal races

IPOH: Police are considering new ways such as “targeted mapping” to curb illegal motorcycle racing in Perak, says state police chief Comm Datuk Azizi Mat Aris.

He said by carrying out targeted mapping, police would be able to identify locations of where illegal racers reside.

He said this out-of-the-box approach could lead police to get to the houses of the Mat Rempit before they hit the road.

“By knowing where these illegal racers live, we will also be aware of workshops that carry out illegal motorcycle modifications.

“Currently, unless there is a criminal element such as motorcycle theft, police do not go knocking on doors to hunt down the illegal racers.

“As such, I need to look into the legal provisions first, on whether we are able to go to ‘targeted’ houses, check the motorcycles as well as go to workshops that carry out these illegal modifications,” he told The Star yesterday.

Comm Azizi said this way, the police would be able to prevent racers from gathering on the road and curb illegal racing.

“Apart from that, of course we have the conventional ways of carrying out operations to arrest illegal racers.

“The other important factor is to create more awareness among students, youths and parents on illegal racing and modification of vehicles.

“Police, from time to time, carry out a series of talks by elected liaison officers at schools, mosques and community areas, among others,” he added.

Comm Azizi said during talks with students, they would always emphasise the importance of not breaking the law, such as ­having a licence, following traffic rules, wearing helmets as well as not modifying their motorcycles.

He said as for the parents, they would be advised not to allow their children to ride a bike without a licence.

Comm Azizi added that from January to July this year, under Ops Samseng Jalanan, a total of 205 operations were carried out with 114 arrested.

A total of 506 vehicles were seized, and 4,116 summonses were issued.
“The bulk of the summonses issued were for those riding a motorcycle without a licence,” he said.

Comm Azizi added that besides illegal racing, those under the influence of alcohol were also a nuisance.

“When they are drunk and forget themselves, they become street thugs,” he said.