Viral video shows Johor police using buses to block illegal street racers
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Plainclothes policemen on motorcycles can be seen intercepting Mat Rempit, the local nickname for illegal motorcycle racers, at a traffic light in Jalan Skudai near Danga Bay.
PHOTO: THE STAR/ASIA NEWS NETWORK
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JOHOR BAHRU – Just when the notorious Mat Rempit thought they had outrun the law, they were suddenly stopped in their tracks, with the police deploying two buses to set up a dramatic roadblock.
A viral dashcam video captured the intense scene – plainclothes policemen on motorcycles can be seen intercepting Mat Rempit, the local nickname for illegal motorcycle racers, at a traffic junction in Jalan Skudai near Danga Bay.
One motorcyclist attempted to run over police personnel while fleeing, and another managed a narrow escape before the two buses cut through and blocked the lanes, creating a massive roadblock.
Johor Bahru South district police chief Raub Selamat defended the use of the buses, noting that it is legally permissible for the police to use various methods to prevent crime.
Addressing public concerns, he said the operation on Aug 26 and 27, which involved multiple agencies, was a crime prevention measure.
“We have previously seen incidents where police personnel were struck by motorcyclists who refused to stop at roadblocks.
“The safety of my personnel and other road users is our top priority, which is why we decided to use the buses,” said Assistant Commissioner Raub.
“Illegal racing is still under control in the police district, but cases of motorcycle theft and illegal modification are on the rise.
“This is one of the reasons for the operation,” he said.
The operation involved the Road Transport Department (JPJ), Johor Bahru City Council and the Department of Environment (DOE).
“A total of 286 individuals and 257 vehicles were inspected,” said AC Raub.
“From that number, some 115 motorcycles were seized for further inspection and 153 summonses were issued for various traffic offences, including driving without a licence and illegal modification of their vehicles.
“JPJ also issued 54 summonses for various offences, while the DOE issued 46 summonses and 52 inspection notices for vehicles with loud exhausts.”
A 28-year-old local man was arrested after testing positive for drugs. THE STAR/ASIA NEWS NETWORK
