KOTA KINABALU: Sabah recorded an eight per cent drop in road accident cases, but an almost threefold increase in fatal traffic mishaps throughout “Ops Selamat” last year, compared to 2015.
State Community Safety and Crime Prevention Department chief Senior Assistant Commissioner Ahmad Fadzillah Mohamed said 764 traffic accident cases – with nine involving deaths – were recorded in 2015’s Ops Selamat.
"(In 2016), there were (just) 706 accidents, but fatal accidents increased to 24 cases. This shows that road users are still neglecting their responsibility when on the road.
"Fatal accidents (can be) avoided if drivers make safety measures their top priority and abide (by) traffic laws," he said at the launch of Ops Selamat 2017 at Meruntum near here, in conjunction with an early Hari Raya celebration.
Ahmad said police have identified 20 accident-prone sites throughout the state where they will be stationing enforcement personnel from various agencies.
It is hoped that the enforcement presence will act as a deterrent to would-be road offenders and prevent untoward incidents.
Ahmad also advised homeowners to inform their neighbourhood police if they plan to 'balik kampung' so that their houses could be monitored.
"Don't take safety issues for granted. We call on the public to assist the police in looking after the safety of people and their properties," he said, adding that marine police are also monitoring safety at sea.