KUCHING: A two-week integrated operation codenamed Ops Lejang Khas managed to nab 18 individuals suspected of motorcycle and car thefts here.
Kuching OCPD ACP Ahsmon Bajah said the operation, carried out by nine officers and 77 rank-and-file personnel, was held from Aug 9-22.
In the operation, a total of 13 vehicles comprising Yamaha motorcycles, Perodua Viva cars and Toyota Hilux pick-ups, were recovered from the suspects.
“Based on our investigation, these suspects, aged between 13 and 42, are opportunists. They would target vehicles in residential areas and public parking lots early in the morning, from 4am to 8am.
“They would use a T-shaped screwdriver, a master key and other equipment to gain access into the vehicle,” ACP Ahsmon explained.
Following the arrests, a total of 14 investigation papers were opened under Section 379A of the Penal Code.
Of the figure, four have been prosecuted in court while, the rest are being referred to the deputy public prosecutor for further action.
ACP Ahsmon reminded the public to get additional security measures to ensure their cars are not easily broken into as police have detected a sudden increase of missing vehicles in Kuching following the endemic transition phase.
“The suspects target vehicles that do not need additional keys (steering wheel lock, wheel lock and others) and that is where they use their modified key to gain access into the vehicle.
“Hence, we urge the public to get additional keys (safety measures) to your vehicles to secure them.”
