CAMERON HIGHLANDS: Police have identified several hotspots in the Cameron Highlands parliamentary constituency which might trigger tension among supporters from political parties contesting in the Jan 26 by-election here.
State police chief Datuk Mohd Zakaria Ahmad assured that the situation on the ground was not worrying and the police was prepared for any eventualities including during campaigning, polling and after the results are announced on Jan 26.
"The department has identified the hotspots(based on the 14th General Election) but there is nothing to worry.....Cameron Highlands is not like other places(other by-election). We will monitor all areas to ensure the people's safety.
"Since we are all aware that the traffic problems in Cameron Highlands is quite chronic, policemen and police multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) will be stationed at various location in town to assist motorist and ensure a smooth traffic flow during campaign and polling day," he told reporters during a press conference at the by-election media operating centre here today.
Zakaria said during the 14th General Election on May 9, police recorded 13 election related offences in Cameron Highlands mainly concerning vandalism to the posters.
He said 1,132 policemen will be on duty throughout the by election which involves two state seats, Tanah Rata in Cameron Highlands and Jelai in Lipis.
Zakaria reminded political parties to apply for permits from the respective district police stations in Cameron Highlands(for Tanah Rata) and Kuala Lipis(for Jelai) before holding any ceramah.
"Political parties contesting should know their limitations and adhere to the laws, regulations and instructions issued by the Election Commission(EC). The police is working closely with the EC to ensure a smooth campaign and election process," he said, adding there are no incidents reported throughout the nomination process today.