Sabahans being closely screened at roadblocks on day one of lockdown

KOTA KINABALU: Although traffic was generally smooth during day one of the lockdown in the city, there was some traffic congestion at roadblocks where motorists were closely screened for their permit documents.

Police were seen turning back motorists at a roadblock along Kepayan road towards the city here.

Some of these motorists had dubious "official permits" while others in essential services were heard explaining they could not provide a letter as their companies were closed following the long Kaamatan holidays since the weekend on May 29.

Other roadblocks near Kolombong area and also Inanam saw smoother movement early Tuesday.

Sabah Police Commissioner Datuk Hazani Ghazali said 2,075 teams have been deployed statewide to ensure standard operating procedures compliance during the lockdown.

He said there were a total of 62 roadblocks around the state and some 1,584 police and other security officials would be manning them.

"Overall police are deploying 3,659 personnel and will be assisted by 1,995 personnel from different security agencies for manning roadblocks and monitoring teams," he said.

He urged the public to observe the SOPs and not make leave their homes unnecessarily to avoid facing police action.

"We will be firm and will issue summons to offenders. They will be no compromise in efforts to fight the spread of Covid-19 in the state," he added.