PUCHONG residents are encouraged to take steps to reduce crime in their neighbourhoods.
Serdang district police chief Asst Comm AA Anbalagan said 215 criminal cases had been filed in the district this year.
Of that number, 59 involved violent crime while 156 were property-related.
“If people can cooperate fully with police, I believe the culprits can be caught, charged in court and crime can be reduced,” he said at a community safety programme by Bandar Puteri 8 Rukun Tetangga at the area’s badminton court.
“Call the police when you see suspicious individuals in the neighbourhood late at night and early in the morning.
“Instal closed-circuit television cameras to capture footage outside your homes.
“Inform the police if your house will be left unoccupied for more than a day.
“Join neighbourhood groups which can help improve cooperation between the community and police,” said ACP Anbalagan.
Some 100 representatives from 12 neighbourhoods attended the programme, which also offered free health screening and games.
Bandar Puteri Residents Association and Rukun Tetangga chairman Datuk Samson Maman said participants were also given tips on avoiding scams.
“We were advised not to be fooled by low prices, not to panic when receiving calls from individuals asking for personal information and we must not reveal bank account details.”
Subang Jaya City Council (MBSJ) councillor George Yap, who was also at the event, said it was a good opportunity for people to get answers from the authorities on the spot.