THE “boots on the ground” approach is being practised by the South Klang police as part of high-visibility patrols to assure safety in the community.
OCPD Asst Comm Cha Hoong Fong said the police would carry out checks at convenience stores in commercial areas or around neighbourhoods during patrols.
ACP Cha said his men had been advised to stop at petrol kiosks, playgrounds or restaurants to engage with the public.
“This enables the people to speak to local police about issues affecting their area,” he said in a press conference after the 217th Police Day celebration at South Klang Police District headquarters.
He said patrols would involve vehicle and motorcycle units.
The patrols, said ACP Cha, would also be increased based on intelligence, especially around financial institutions.
“Our high-visibility patrols are synchronised with day-to-day policing operations.
“Measures like this increases public confidence in personal and property safety,” he added.
“Our men patrol neighbourhoods in the wee hours of the morning, while people are asleep,” said ACP Cha.
“Having patrol vehicles turn on their siren lights on patrol has a deterrence element and sends a strong message to would-be offenders.
“Apart from uniformed police, we have plainclothes personnel conducting surveillance in areas where it is needed most.
“Our patrols have received positive feedback from business owners and local community.”
He added that the police were committed to maintaining safety and harmony of the community, in line with this year’s Police Day celebration theme “Polis dan Masyarakat Berpisah Tiada”.
The Police Day celebration is held on March 25 every year.
Klang MP V. Ganabatirau was presented an appreciation certificate for creating awareness on crime prevention through meetings with his constituents.
Members of the public and several senior Klang journalists from various media also received certificates of appreciation, presented by ACP Cha.