KUALA LUMPUR: A total of 742 people were arrested at roadblocks and patrols nationwide yesterday for defying the Movement Control Order (MCO), said Senior Defence Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.
In urging the public to abide by the order, he said offenders may face tough penalties if arrested, as shown in Sarawak, where jail terms of between one month and four months were meted out.
He said so far, a total of 165 people had been charged in court, with six of them sentenced to either fine or jail.
“We have seen a decrease in the number of people being arrested (for defying the MCO) compared to the previous day (Sunday) where 828 people were arrested.
“I hope the trend continues as this shows that the public understands the importance of adhering to the MCO. I hope all citizens view the order seriously. Obey all the instructions issued (by the authorities),” he said in a live telecast today.
A total of 1,547 roadblocks and patrols by the police and armed forces have been implemented, with 383,488 vehicles inspected and 22,586 spot checks carried out.
Meanwhile, Ismail Sabri said the Housing and Local Government Ministry had carried out disinfection in 47 areas nationwide, including 23 red zones, and would continue with the efforts.