AMPANG: Police patrols will be stepped up in housing areas in Ampang during the festive season, says Asst Comm Mohamad Farouk Eshak.

       The Ampang Jaya OCPD said the focus of the patrols was to ensure the safety of houses left empty due to the balik kampung exodus.

       "We will increase patrols, especially at night. The police presence will act as a deterrent against any possible criminal activity," he told reporters after launching the Ampang Jaya police headquarters' Ops Selamat on Thursday (April 28).

       ACP Mohamad Farouk advised the public to make sure that their homes are properly secured before leaving for their hometowns.

       "Inform the police of how long the homes will be left unattended so that our patrols will visit such areas more frequently.

       "Let us work together to ensure the safety of all homes this festive season," he said.

       While he understood that most were eager to celebrate Hari Raya Aidilfitri in their hometowns after two years of not doing so due to Covid-19, ACP Mohamad Farouk reminded the public to be mindful on the road and avoid violating any traffic regulations.

       "The most important thing is to arrive safely at the intended destination," he said.

       For the Ampang Jaya area, Ops Selamat had previously recorded four fatal accidents in 2018 followed by zero fatal accidents in 2019, he said.

       "There were no Ops Selamat in 2020 and 2021 due to the pandemic.

       "We hope this year we can maintain zero fatal accidents," he said.

       Constant monitoring will be conducted to ensure smooth traffic, especially along the MRR2, he said.

       "We also hope that everyone will be able to celebrate Hari Raya safely with their loved ones," he said.

       ACP Mohamad Farouk urged those with information on any criminal activity to contact the nearest police station.