KUCHING: Road users have been advised to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy before embarking on their Christmas trips.
Sarawak Police Commissioner Datuk Azman Yusof said that those intending to travel back to their hometowns must send their vehicles for servicing or checks before hitting the road.
He also advised drivers and motorcyclists to drive safely on the road and avoid speeding.
“We recently launched our Ops Selamat from Dec 18, 2018 till Jan 1, 2019 in Sibu to reduce the number of road accidents and deaths,” he said when contacted yesterday.
He added that the operation was to ensure smooth traffic flows and to check on the vehicles.
“I also want to advise those who will be away from home to fill in a form and inform their nearest police station that they will be away for Christmas,” added Azman.
The police would then be able to patrol their housing areas to avoid any housebreaking incidents, he explained.
“Members of the public must always keep their doors locked at all times and help to keep watch on their neighbours’ houses if they are not at home,” he said.
Meanwhile, Sarawak Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department chief Supt Alexson Naga Chabu said that the number of road accidents had slightly increased this year compared to last year.
“As of January till yesterday, the number of road accidents recorded stood at 19,313 while in 2017, it was 18,794,” he said, adding that the number of fatal accidents had dropped from 348 cases in 2017 to 307 cases.
