LETTERS: Of late, there has been a surge in crime, especially thefts and burglaries, in Banting, more so on the outskirts of the town.
Most of the houses there are in the oil palm smallholdings, and the dwellings are distant from one another.
This makes it ideal for criminals to trespass and enter homes when the occupants are away.
Many of the thefts occur at night and residents are shocked at the audacity of the burglars, who are mostly drug addicts or members of gangs. Nowadays, smallholders are living in fear of their lives and property.
The police are aware of the spate of crimes in Banting for some time now, and they have the resources to counter it as the Kuala Langat police headquarters, with its large complement of personnel, is stationed in Banting town.
It will not be difficult to collect evidence of crime as the perpetrators are mostly not hardcore thieves but more likely opportunists who prey on vulnerable targets.
Perhaps, ineffective security has made them bolder to commit more crime as they feel that they can get away with it.
By now, due to the police reports lodged by victims, the police could have collected valuable data and information to nab the culprits or take preventive action against thefts and burglaries.
More police patrols at night on the outskirts of Banting, as well as rounding up of drug addicts and suspects, will reduce crime in Banting, to the relief of townsfolk, who yearn for more serious action by the authorities.
GEORGE THOMAS
Banting, Selangor
The views expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect those of the New Straits Times