KUCHING: Police arrested three local male drivers, aged between 24 and 65, during a road safety operation in the city after they were found driving under the influence of alcohol.
According to Kuching District Police Chief ACP Alexson Naga Chabu, all three suspects tested positive for alcohol levels exceeding the legal limit of 50 milligrams per 100 millilitres of blood, as measured using the SD2+ breathalyser device.
The suspects were taken to the Kuching District Police Headquarters for further investigation. They are being investigated under Section 45A(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987.
“If convicted, the offenders face imprisonment of up to two years, a fine between RM10,000 and RM30,000, and a minimum two-year driving ban. Repeat offenders face heavier penalties, including up to five years’ jail, a fine between RM20,000 and RM50,000, and at least a five-year driving ban,” Alexson said.
The operation, which took place along Jalan Tabuan from 11.00 p.m. on August 21 until 3.00 a.m. today, involved two senior officers and 11 personnel.
During the inspection, police screened 84 individuals and checked 76 vehicles, including 23 cars, 30 motorcycles, 11 four-wheel drives, and 12 multi-purpose vehicles (MPVs). A total of 27 summonses were issued for various traffic offences.
ACP Alexson stressed that such operations will continue regularly to reduce the risk of road accidents caused by drunk driving.
“I strongly urge all road users not to drive under the influence of alcohol. It endangers not only other road users but also their own lives,” he said.
The police reminded the public that traffic enforcement operations remain one of the key strategies to promote safe driving behaviour and prevent unnecessary accidents on the roads.
