BUTTERWORTH: Some 400,00 vehicles entered Penang on the first day of Ops Selamat 18, says state police chief Comm Datuk Mohd Shuhaily Mohd Zain.

       Comm Mohd Shuhaily said the number of vehicles increased compared with 377,000 vehicles entering the state on Thursday (April 28).

       "We expect more vehicles to be in Penang by tomorrow as many will take the opportunity to make their journey with the toll-free offered on local highways for all vehicles," he said during his checks at the Juru toll Friday (April 29).

       Comm Mohd Shuhaily said anticipating this, leaves of police traffic officers and personnel at the state police contingent are frozen as they will be working in full capacity during the Hari Raya period to ensure smooth traffic.

       On Ops Selamat 18, Comm Mohd Shuhaily said more than 700 personnel are deployed during the festive period.

       He said Ops Selamat 18, which will begin for 10 days from April 29 until May 8, is aimed at reducing road accidents, especially fatal accidents; focusing on traffic enforcement and service to the public, and ensuring the safety of the houses left vacant during the festive period.

       He reminded motorists to plan their journey and follow traffic rules and regulations, adding that they should be responsible and not be selfish as this can cause mishaps while on the road.