79 arrested in Ipoh over two-week MCO period

IPOH: At least 79 individuals have been arrested for violating the movement control order (MCO) in Ipoh between March 18 and March 31.

Ipoh OCPD Asst Comm A. Asmadi Abdul Aziz said the arrest included 72 Malaysians and seven foreigners.

“The arrest were made from March 18 until 31. We have about 30 reports in total.

“Five cases were at roadblocks, 22 cases were on the streets and three in recreational parks.

“Thirty-three of those arrested have been charged with violating the MCO on Tuesday (March 31), ” he told reporters after visiting the roadblocks along Jalan Kuala Kangsar here on Wednesday (April 1).

Asmadi said in the two weeks of manning the roadblocks, the police heard numerous excuses given by the public.

“While the public can still go for takeaways, we hope they will limit their movement. Upon checking, we found some came all the way from Bercham just to get some food in Ipoh, as if there are no restaurants or eateries in their area.

“Stay at home. Do not go out unless is necessary.

The law is there for everyone to follow, and the purpose of the law is to protect our health.

“We would like to remind everyone in Ipoh that our team will be taking stricter approach during the MCO to ensure everyone follows the rules, ” he said.

He also said the police would be focusing on doing rounds in residential areas and villages.

“We will also add more 24-hours roadblocks around Ipoh, as well as doing rounds, ” he said, adding that some roadblocks would have a special lane for frontliners such as ambulance and hospital staff.