KUCHING, June 2: Do not waste your hard earned money on paying compounds for flouting the Covid-19 standard operating procedures (SOP), urged Kuching police chief ACP Ahsmon Bajah.
“Sarawak is currently under the Movement Control Order (MCO) in a bid to break the chain of infection. As stated in the SOP, police will compound those who are complacent and refuse to obey the stipulated directives.
“Do not disobey the SOP. Do not make us issue you compounds. Although it may be as low as RM1,500, that is your money. Instead, please use that money to buy your much needed essentials,” Ahsmon advised.
He asserted that it was a “sad situation” when a person gets compounded and at the same time, exposing themselves, their loved ones and the public to Covid-19.
Speaking to reporters at one of the roadblocks in the city last night, he warned that police will intensify their enforcement including mobile roadblocks in addition to the ones already in place to ensure that members of the public comply with the SOP and do not travel across districts.
Although enforcement personnel have the right to issue compounds, he added that the teams which were assisted by People’s Volunteer Corps (Rela) and Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) would issue reminders to the public from time to time to always adhere to the SOP.
Last night’s road block at Jalan Airport saw many vehicles trying their luck to enter Kuching district and were sternly told to turn back.
“On Monday, we have set up eight static roadblocks in strategic locations and one mobile road block to control the movement of the public.
“We have added another six static and two mobile roadblocks in Kuching town area because over the last 24 hours, we received numerous information and tip offs on movement of motorists. Although some of those travelling are allowed to do so as they are under the essential services category, we must ensure that they are genuine and we will not compromise with any of them if they are found to have flouted the SOP,” Ahsmon said.
Meanwhile, six individuals in the district were compounded for offenses such as carrying more than two persons in a vehicle, attempting to cross districts and having gathering with friends.
Appealing to the public repeatedly to comply with the SOPs, he asked that everyone be patient for at least 14 days, and thereafter, if the virus is manageable, the situation will improve. — DayakDaily
