KUALA LUMPUR: The safety of policemen while carrying out operations to stop illegal racing is always a priority, said Bukit Aman Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department director Datuk Azisman Alias.

       Policemen involved in operations to stop illegal racing were advised not to engage with the offenders for their own safety, adding that they should collect evidence by taking photos and videos of those involved in the illegal activity for enforcement and prosecution purposes.

       “Although arrests could not be made on the same day, police can make follow-up arrests based on the available evidence,” he told Bernama.

       Azisman said the police had adopted the approach since 2018 and it had been used by all state police contingents.

       “The case that happened in Kajang was unfortunate and we are deeply upset about it,” he said when asked about the accident that killed two policemen who were chasing illegal motorcycle racers at the Kajang Silk Highway early Sunday morning. Sergeant Mohd Arifah Md Yasin, 36, and Constable Mohd Muradzi Mohd Nawi, 26, were killed instantly.

       Former Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Musa Hassan said policemen must remain vigilant and not endanger themselves while on duty. He said besides arresting these traffic offenders, the police could also record the registration number of vehicles involved in the illegal activity and bring it to court.

       Alliance for Safe Community chairman Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye sympathised with the police, saying, “The police often risk their lives for others’ safety.” — Bernama

       “The two policemen died in the line of duty. My deepest condolences to their families,” Lee said.

       Lee said he sympathised with the police, who are always at risk during their operations including those against mat rempit.

       “I hope the police will give priority to risk assessment everytime they conduct any operation.

       “During their training, the police should also emphasise on occupational safety and health (OSH),” he said.

       Lee said that any high risk job needs proper risk assessment.

       “We have encountered so many cases in which cops got injured during operations. So proper risk assessment and OSH are important,” he said. — Bernama