Comm Hamzah pushing the air-horn to start the tug-of-war at the adoption ceremony of Taman Alam Jaya. — ZHAFARAN NASIB/The Star
A SURGE in crime led Taman Alma Jaya in Bukit Mertajam to be adopted as a police Women’s Volunteer Squad (Amanita) neighbourhood or Taman Angkat Amanita Polis.
From four cases in 2022 and one case last year, a total of 21 cases have been reported in the neighbourhood as of November, Penang police chief Comm Datuk Hamzah Ahmad said.
“Taman Alma Jaya, which falls under the administrative area of the Machang Bubok police station, is surrounded by other neighbourhoods such as Taman Sejahtera and Taman Seri Janggus.
“High population density is among a factor contributing to crimes such as theft of vehicles and break-ins at houses and factories.
“We also received reports of domestic violence and vandalism,” he told reporters at the adoption ceremony.
Comm Hamzah said Taman Alma Jaya is the 13th Penang neighbourhood adopted by Amanita in a bid to lower crime rates by improving collaboration with residents.
“We hope to raise awareness among individuals and families on crime prevention, besides fostering a sense of responsibility among the community.
“The adoption will help ease reporting of suspicious and criminal activities to authorities as well as establish cooperation between Amanita members and residents.”
He said Penang has over 17,000 Amanita members from the police and community.
“There are currently 885 Amanita police members, comprising 138 senior officers and 747 lower rank officers, with the rest made up of housewives,” he said during his speech.
To encourage community participation, an array of activities were held including food stalls, exhibitions, games, lucky draw and tug-of-war.
Special forces members showcased their combat skills in re-enacted crime scenes while K-9 unit dogs displayed their skills.
Those with traffic summonses made a beeline to a payment booth to enjoy 50% discounts.
At a press conference later, Comm Hamzah revealed that the crime rate involving property and theft was increasing despite Penang having recorded almost 20% fewer crime cases this year.
“We have recorded 3,667 crime cases up to November this year, lower than threshold number of 4,477 cases.
“But, for crime involving property and theft, 1,314 cases were recorded so far this year compared to 1,064 cases last year.”
Also present was Penang Police Family Association chairman Datin Sulastri Fethihana Swanto.
