PETRA JAYA: As the balik kampung rush is expected this weekend, Sarawak police are urging road users to be extra cautious while plying Jalan Sibu–Bintulu, identified as the main accident-prone area in the state.
Sarawak Crime Prevention and Community Security head Datuk Muhammed Hasbullah Ali said the route, about 200km long, was part of the Pan-Borneo Highway.
Hasbullah said there were 58 hotspots in the state, with many located along the Sibu–Bintulu stretch.
“Our officers and personnel from various agencies, who will be stationed there, will increase their patrols to minimise accidents and prevent untoward incidents.”
He said the poor road conditions due to the construction of the highway was among the factors contributing to accidents.
He was representing Sarawak Police Commissioner Azman Yusof at the launch of Op Selamat 15 held in conjunction of Gawai Daya and Hari Raya Aidilfitri at Kubah Ria here yesterday.
Hasbullah said 692 accidents, including 13 deaths, were recorded during Op Selamat in 2017 while 680 accidents with 10 deaths were recorded last year.
“With 750 personnel from the police, Fire and Rescue Department, Civil Defence Force, Road Transport Department and Health Department stationed from Kuching to Lawas, we hope to bring down the number of accidents this year.”