NIBONG TEBAL: A lorry driver was arrested for reckless driving during a police chase and for obstructing authorities from inspecting his vehicle during an integrated operation on Saturday night.
The incident unfolded during a police operation targeting street thugs, codenamed Op Samseng Jalanan, near the Jawi toll plaza at about 11.30pm.
During the operation, the police spotted two tipper lorries being driven suspiciously.
Seberang Prai Selatan district police chief Superintendent Jay January Siowou said that when the drivers were signalled to stop, both ignored police orders and sped off towards Nibong Tebal’s main road.
He added that one of the lorries ran a red light at Bukit Panchor and nearly collided with a policeman stationed at the intersection.
“The driver continued to flee, driving dangerously along Jalan Transkrian, before the vehicle was intercepted and apprehended by police with assistance from mobile patrol vehicles and police motorcycle patrol units at Jalan Sungai Daun in Kampung Ladang Kalidonia.
“Initial investigations showed that the suspect did not have a valid driving license or Goods Driver’s License (GDL).
“Further checks indicated that the vehicle’s road tax had expired, although its insurance remained valid,” he said in a statement on Sunday.
Jay added that the suspect tested negative for drugs during a urine screening and that the vehicle had been seized.
The case is being investigated under Section 186 of the Penal Code for obstructing a public servant and Section 42(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987 for reckless driving.
“We want to remind the public that reckless driving is a serious offence that can result in fatal accidents, and we will not hesitate to take stern action,” he said.
Jay said police would intensify enforcement efforts, particularly operations targeting dangerous drivers, to ensure the safety of all road users.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
