More roadblocks ahead but no barbed wire in Selangor, say police

PETALING JAYA: More roadblocks will be set up to ensure the compliance of standard operating procedures (SOP) during the implementation of the enhanced movement control order (MCO) in the 34 sub-districts in Selangor from July 3.

Selangor police chief Comm Datuk Arjunaidi Mohamed said it would be impossible for police to set up barbed wire fences, such as those used for enhanced MCO in selected localities.

"Currently, we have between 120 and 140 roadblocks in the state. We will increase this number while our compliance operation task force will conduct snap checks.

"Enforcement will be focused at the roadblocks located at the entrance of roads to each sub-district involved in the enhanced MCO," he said during an interview with a media portal on Friday (July 2).

Some 80% of the state police's 14,000-strong personnel would be used for Covid-19 operations, he added.

"The police will be stationed at all necessary locations in Selangor to ensure that only those permitted to travel are able to do so.

"We will also conduct mobile roadblocks at strategic locations from time to time depending on the necessity," he said.

Comm Arjunaidi said only workers listed under essential or permitted services and industries would be allowed to travel during the implementation of the enhanced MCO.

"They must have the necessary documents and letters when going through roadblocks.

"This also applies to those working in Selangor and staying in Kuala Lumpur and vice versa as well.

"Those who don't have the necessary documents will be told to turn back and if they have crossed state borders, they will be issued compound notices and then instructed to turn back," he added.

However, Comm Arjunaidi said leeway will be given to those going for vaccine appointments.

"For example, if two people from a household are going for vaccine appointments on the same day and at the same location, we will allow them to be in the same car despite the SOP saying that only one person is allowed in a car.

"It is similar for those travelling for medical reasons.

"We urge those with inquiries or facing any problems regarding the SOP to call our operations room. We will assist and provide the necessary advice," he said.

Comm Arjunaidi advised the public to give their full cooperation to successfully curb the spread of the virus.

"Selangor recorded the highest number of Covid-19 cases daily. So, the enhanced MCO is necessary in Selangor.

"If the people give their full cooperation, God willing, we will be able to bring down the number of cases within or earlier than two weeks," he said.