KOTA KINABALU: Sabah police are considering deploying K9 units at Kota Kinabalu International Airport (KKIA) checkpoints to curb drug smuggling.
Sabah Police Commissioner Datuk Jauteh Dikun said that while cooperation with agencies like the Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency (MCBA) is yielding results, more effective measures are needed.
He noted that evolving smuggling methods, such as hiding drugs in parcels and boxes, have made detection increasingly challenging.
"We have asked the MCBA to ensure all scanners are working properly. If necessary, we will begin using K9 dog sniffers at the airports," he said during a press conference on Wednesday (March 18).
Jauteh emphasized that the plan is still in the proposal stage and will account for religious sensitivities. Measures would be taken to ensure the canines do not come into direct contact with travellers' belongings.
In a separate matter, Jauteh urged motorists to adhere to traffic regulations and get sufficient rest during the upcoming Hari Raya balik kampung exodus.
He highlighted that no road fatalities were recorded in the state during the previous Op Selamat for Chinese New Year.
"There were accidents, but no deaths. Let’s keep it that way for Hari Raya as well," he said.
The festive Op Selamat will run for a five-day duration, covering two days before and two days after the public holidays.
Jauteh added that 90% of road accidents are caused by human negligence, including stress, fatigue, and driving under the influence.
