The police are barking up the wrong tree on issues to curtail gangsterism, says a newly formed crime watch NGO today.
V Ravindran, the pro-term committee member of Malaysia Community Crime Care Association (MCCCA) recommends that the enforcement departments should instead look into prevention of crime rather than the gangsters themselves.
MCCCA is headed by the former inspector general of police Musa Hassan.
“Gangsterism is like a tree. Thus, the police should cut the ‘taproot’ of the tree. But, currently they are cutting only the twigs,” he told FMT.
He further added that shooting or arresting hundreds of gangsters is only a temporary measure. Such actions will not end gangsterism in Malaysia.
“There is no point arresting these small timers, also known as ‘runners’ or ‘semut’, who merely took instructions from their respective leaders,” said Ravindran.
“There are many more out there who are economically deprived ready to replace these ‘runners’”.
Secret societies
According to Ravindran, secret societies have been around since the 1850s.
“There are over hundreds of secret societies or gangs in Malaysia, comprising of all races; including natives of Sabah and Sarawak. Even foreigners have their gangs,” he said.
He added that several societies are well organised with their own flag, anthem, logo and in-house rules.
“Leaders of these secret societies are well connected with politicians, police and business people. These warlords are well respected in their community,” said Ravindran.
“Some of them even carried datukship titles. They are willing to spend millions of ringgit to recruit young members into the societies.”
“If the police are really interested in gangsterism prevention, they should first go after these people,” he added.
Ravindran believes that arresting the warlords is a better option in preventing gangsterism than going after the small timers.
Nevertheless, Ravindran admits that the police do find difficulties going after the big guns.
“Too much politicking on the issue of gangsterism by both BN and the opposition has hampered police efforts at times.”
He said the BN leaders have used the police for their personal agenda while Pakatan has been too critical on the enforcement agency.
“I’m not against criticism, but it should be constructive instead of destructive,” said Ravindran.
“It would be more helpful to police when politicians come out with suggestions instead of criticism and instructions,” he added.
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