KUALA LUMPUR: The crime index nationwide showed a reduction of 292 cases between Jan 1 and June 30 this year from the same period last year, says Tan Sri Razarudin Husain.
The Inspector-General of Police said a total of 25,482 cases were recorded in the first half of this year while the corresponding period last year saw 25,774 cases nationwide.
"(This is) a reduction of 292 cases or 1.1%," he said in his speech during Bukit Aman's monthly assembly on Thursday (July 20).
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The IGP said 16,518 out of the 25,482 cases this year have been solved.
"This is 64.8% of the cases, which surpasses the target solving rate of 45%.
"We also opened 56,677 investigation papers (IPs) involving index and non-index crimes. From (these) IPs, 31,014 prosecutions have been conducted," he said.
The country's top cop said society's observation and assessment of the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) are based on its capabilities to curb crime and investigate, detain and prosecute criminals.
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"It includes enforcing the law in a smart way in terms of investigating and prosecuting criminals.
"The quality of intelligence gathering determines the outcome of an operation and whether the criminals are prosecuted or otherwise.
"We must improve the credibility, efficiency and skills of our officers to ensure crime prevention and suppression are at the highest level," he said.
Razarudin said he will not hesitate to take action if any parties practise bureaucracy and "pilih bulu" (favouritism) in conducting an investigation.
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"In the context of crime, the duties and responsibilities of police personnel and officers are getting more challenging.
"Society demands... speed, accuracy and transparency in policing so that they can reap the benefits as stakeholders," he said.
Previously a criminal case only required the involvement of the police, complainant, suspect and witness, but now all parties with interests will come forward especially in cases of public interest, Razarudin said.
"In fact, issues involving an investigation are also highlighted despite concrete and fast action taken by the police.
"While we cannot satisfy all parties, let us work towards giving the best policing service so that we gain society's trust," he added.
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The IGP said he has set two main focuses for the force that should be acted upon, requiring aggressive implementation and continuous monitoring at all levels.
"The first focus is that the service of the police force must be based on integrity and good governance.
"The second is supporting and carrying out government policies to the betterment of society," he said.
The aspect of integrity remains a priority that should be a culture for all in the police force, he added.
"We must embody and practise integrity in every duty we perform.
"This will shield us from involvement in unwanted activities and simultaneously reduce or close off any opportunity for corruption.
"Officers and personnel must reflect the value of integrity through their appearance, attitude and decisions," he said.
