GOMBAK: The police force will deploy over 9,000 of its personnel to ensure safety and monitor standard operating procedure (SOP) compliance during the Sarawak state elections.

       Deputy Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Mazlan Lazim said manpower from the state's police contingent was sufficient, but Bukit Aman was ready to send reinforcements if needed.

       "We are ready and have not encountered any problems when it comes to deployment of personnel for the elections there.

       "I want to advise the public not to try and cause trouble, and always comply with SOP to ensure the elections run smoothly," he said after launching the Gombak police headquarters on Monday (Nov 29).

       The Sarawak state elections will be held on Dec 18 and nominations will be on Dec 6. Early voting has been set for Dec 14.

       On compliance operations, Mazlan said 2,596 compliance teams had been deployed nationwide.

       "People have started going out more. While they are out and about they may violate SOP sometimes. This is why our teams are out to monitor the situation.

       "At Selangor, we have 339 teams in the field while in Gombak, 14 teams have been deployed," he said, adding that those who were stubborn and refused to comply with SOP would face action under the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act.