Sunday, Nov 04, 2012
JOHOR BARU - As policemen, their day job requires them to keep the peace and ensure the safety of the people.
One can also argue that their job is round-the-clock, so even when off-duty they have the same responsibilities.
Come night, however, some of them morph into "road warriors" who recklessly race on Jalan Skudai, along Lido Beach and Danga Bay here, to show off their modified cars' prowess.
These policemen, who are normally off-duty, are known to join the hundreds of illegal motorcycle and car racers to feed their speeding habit along the notorious stretch, especially on weekends.
However, their activities came to light after three rank and file personnel were arrested during an operation by state traffic police last week.
It is learnt that all three general duty policemen, who were in their 20s, were caught unawares during the operation as they raced their late 1990s Honda Civic cars.
One was later found to have tested positive for drug abuse, while another was supposed to be on duty when he was arrested.
And all three, with about two years of service in the force, have been investigated for reckless and dangerous driving.
They face up to 10 years in prison or a maximum fine of RM20,000 and possible suspension of their driver's licence, upon conviction.
The New Sunday Times learnt that the Johor police headquarters was appalled that its personnel, who were attached to various stations, were taking part in such illegal activities.
A source said a statewide circular had been issued to all districts, departments and branches on the issue of police personnel taking part in illegal racing activities.
"All the district police chiefs and also department and branch heads have been notified and police will not hesitate to take action on their own men who take part in illegal racing activities," said the source.
The circular dated Oct 29, which was made available to the New Sunday Times, also included support personnel and police volunteer reservists.
The source said the circular covers the use of personal cars and motorcycles, including those under their spouse or relative's name, for illegal racing purposes.
"In addition to (court action), police can also take disciplinary action against the three policemen and others who have taken part in illegal racing through domestic inquiries," said the source.
Over the past year, both sides of the more than 10km-long stretch from the Sultanah Aminah Hospital towards Danga Bay has been a hotbed for illegal racing activities for cars and Mat Rempit on motorcycles.
Many motorists will also park their vehicles on the road shoulders to watch.
Besides racing, the Mat Rempit also perform dangerous stunts such as zig-zagging, riding against the flow of traffic and also "daredevil acrobatic" stunts.
The illegal activities will usually start from midnight and last up to 4am and have endangered many motorists who use the stretch to reach home from the city.
Police have identified the stretch as a "hot spot" and have randomly conducted operations with the assistance of Rela in the area.
Senior Johor police officers could not be reached for comment.
