SIBU: The number of homeless individuals in Sibu has increased since the Covid-19 pandemic began with 30 more registered by the authorities this week.

       According to state Welfare, Community Well-being, Women, Family and Childhood Development Ministry statistics, a total of 237 homeless persons were identified in 11 divisions statewide last year.

       Kuching has the most with 90 people; Bintulu, 43; Sibu, 41; Miri, 21; Sri Aman, 18; Sarikei, nine; and Limbang, seven; while Kapit, Serian, Betong and Mukah have two each.

       Sibu OCPD Asst Comm Stanley Jonathan Ringgit (pic) announced the figures after presenting certificates to policemen involved in special operations against illegal gambling and gangsterism on Thursday (Aug 19).

       ACP Stanley said the 30 individuals this week were registered by the Welfare Department during an outreach vaccination programme for the homeless from Aug 16 to 18.

       "There is no increase in crime cases but the number of homeless individuals seems to have increased.

       "On Wednesday (Aug 18) night, we arrested one of them and the man has been placed under observation by the Welfare Department," said ACP Stanley.

       Sibu Crime Prevention and Community Safety Division head DSP Ariffin Baha, meanwhile, said police had intensified standard operating procedure monitoring with the main focus on eateries and places frequented by residents.

       "We are increasing our monitoring activities as we do not like to see people letting their guard down by not adhering to SOP.

       "Covid-19 cases in Sibu are under control with fewer than 50 new cases per day and we want to (keep the figure low)," he said.