JOHOR BARU: Johor police have hit out against those who spread fake messages on social media claiming that "hundreds of thieves" on motorcycles are preying on tourists who enter the state.

       State police chief Comm Datuk Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay said a WhatsApp message had gone viral, warning Singaporeans not to visit Johor Baru once the border reopens as there will be hundreds of thieves on bikes waiting outside shopping malls to rob them.

       He said Johor's crime index had shown a downward trend of 39.67% or 2,610 from Jan 1 until Nov 23.

       "We recorded a drop of 41.37% in property crimes and 32.21% in decrease violent crimes.

       "Snatch theft cases in Johor also showed a drop of 77.64% and a 51.05% in drop motorcycle thefts compared to last year.

       "Overall, the crime situation in Johor is under control and the crime index rate is on a downward trend," he said.

       Comm Ayob said police would continue aggressively combating crime in Johor to ensure that the state was safe.

       "We will not hesitate to take strict actions against irresponsible people who spread fake news and false information," he said.