KUALA LUMPUR: Police have identified several groups operating illegal traffic vehicle escort services in the city, with some even impersonating traffic police.

Kuala Lumpur Traffic Police chief ACP Mohd Nadzri Hussain said the irresponsible quarters offered their services for as low as RM300 a trip.

“Based on information gathered and the interrogation of suspects who were detained previously, they are paid handsomely.

“Imagine how much they can earn in a day if one trip is RM300,” ACP Mohd Nadzri said.

Five individuals, aged between 26 and 38, have been detained from January to early this month.

“There was a case where a suspect was detained while riding a high-powered Honda CBX 750 motorcycle, which is similar to the motorcycles used by the traffic police,” said ACP Mohd Nadzri.

“Apart from that, some have been using ordinary cars and sounding the siren just like how the traffic police do when carrying out escort duties,” he said.

Mohd Nadzri said the clientele for the groups comprised individuals and dignitaries.

“We are still investigating how they solicit their clients. They are behaving like thugs on the road.

“They stop cars, block and cause traffic congestion.

“These groups are not equipped with the knowledge concerning escorting vehicles and instead, cause anger to other road users,” he said.

ACP Mohd Nadzri said the police were now looking at the activity seriously due to the danger it posed.

“There is no law that gives the right to the public to stop other vehicles and give way to themselves. Only the traffic police are authorised to do so,” he said.

ACP Mohd Nadzri said even the traffic police should undergo periodic training to improve themselves on escort duties.

“In order to obtain their licence, the traffic police must attend a month’s course. There is no way civilians without proper training can suddenly operate such an activity,” he added.

ACP Mohd Nadzri said the rogue escorts had tarnished the police image as the force was likely to be blamed in case of accidents.

He said all activities pertaining to vehicle escort by traffic police were recorded.

He said those operating the activity could be investigated under Section 170 of the Penal Code for impersonating a police personnel, which provided a jail term of up to four years or fine or both, if found guilty.

Resource : The Star Online