House Break-ins, Motorcycle Thefts On The Rise In Sarikei This Year Compared To 2024, Says Ocpd

SARIKEI (March 15): The crime rate in Sarikei has declined compared to the same period in 2024, however, cases of house break-ins and motorcycle thefts have increased, said Sarikei police chief Supt Aswandy Anis.

Speaking to The Borneo Post on Thursday, he said three house break-ins were reported this year so far, compared to five cases last year, while motorcycle thefts have risen to three cases so far this year from last year’s zero cases.

Despite the decrease in overall crime, he noted a worrying spike in cybercrime, particularly online scams.

He added Sarikei has no identified crime hotspots, as incidents are scattered across the district.

“To tackle crime, we conduct regular patrols involving the Criminal Investigation Division, local police stations and Mobile Patrol Vehicles (MPV) along with integrated operations involving multiple police divisions,” he said.

He added these efforts have contributed to the overall decline in crime.

On the rise in cybercrime, he said the most common scams involved impersonation, online purchases and fake loan requests.

He advised the public to be wary of unknown callers and to avoid sharing banking details as well as verifying claims before making payments.

“If you receive calls claiming to be from authorities, always verify by contacting them directly,” he said, adding residents should check the semakmule.rmp.gov.my website before making transactions to avoid fraud.

Aswandy also assured drug-related issues in Sarikei remain under control with continuous enforcement efforts.

“In 2024 alone, we made 475 arrests and seized various types of drugs and ketum water,” he disclosed.

He also noted awareness programmes are conducted in collaboration with schools, villages and local committees.

He urged residents to play an active role in keeping their communities safe by forming neighbourhood patrols and improving lighting in residential areas, and advised business owners to install CCTVs, alarm systems and limit cash holdings.

Residents can report crimes via the 999 hotline, at the nearest police station, or through the Volunteer Smartphone Patrol (VSP) app.

Aswandy also advised women, the elderly, and students to remain vigilant, avoid walking alone in secluded areas, and ensure their homes are locked.

“If approached by strangers, maintain a safe distance and verify their identity before allowing them into your home,” he cautioned.

With continued cooperation between police and the community, he expressed confidence that crime rates in Sarikei would continue to decline.

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