KOTA KINABALU: Five out of 60 commercial vehicle drivers screened in a one-week integrated operation failed their drug tests, the Sabah Road Transport Department (JPJ) says.
Its director Datuk Mohd Harris Ali, in stressing that the department would not compromise on lawbreakers, said that the offenders would have action taken against them according to related laws, following the July 1 to July 6 raids.
“These operations were focused on strategic locations such as roads, computer inspection stations, and bus terminals involving public transport, tour vehicles, and cargo vehicles,” he said in a statement after the Ops Bersepadu Dadah in Inanam on Tuesday night.
He said prior to the raids, the Sabah JPJ had issued a total of 588 summonses between June 16 and July 6 under the Foreign Driver Special Ops Enforcement from among 3,947 vehicles inspected.
“Out of these vehicles inspected, 218 were taken action on, and 28 were seized for various offences.
“These operations were conducted with the National Anti-Drug Agency (AADK), police and other enforcement agencies,” he added.
The crackdown was aimed at strengthening enforcement towards commercial vehicle drivers to ensure they are free from drug abuse and follow road regulations at all times.
It also aims to trace and take action against individuals who abuse drugs, promote positive drug use, and ensure that enforcement actions are taken efficiently against offenders, said Harris.
He said the department wanted to increase the level of adherence to road regulations and anti-drug laws while raising awareness among drivers and transport companies about their responsibilities to ensure safety on the roads.
Harris said throughout the operations, commercial vehicle drivers were required to undergo urine tests.
Those who failed their tests were taken in for further action by the AADK and other enforcement agencies, said Harris, adding that their competent driver’s licences and vocational licences would be held until investigations were complete.
“Some individuals will have their licences suspended for a period of three months. Additionally, companies that fail to ensure their workers are free from drug abuse will also face legal repercussions.
“We will continue to strengthen our cooperation and relations with the various enforcement agencies here to ensure better safety on the roads and to boost the integrity of our transport industry,” Harris added.
