MIRI – What was supposed to be a regular raid by Miri City Council enforcement officials against illegal traders on Sunday has turned into a racial and political controversy.
Local politicians have accused council officials of targeting Dayak traders, but Mayor Adam Yii quickly denied this.
“Raids are purely an enforcement action against Covid-19 SOP violators and illegal traders. We do not discriminate against traders of any race,” he told The Vibes.
“The raids have to be done to enforce the SOPs to prevent more Covid-19 infections. Minimal force was used (in the Sunday raid), but certain politicians are stirring up racial and political sentiments using unfounded allegations.”
He said the operators involved have no trading permits and breached the SOPs by not practising social distancing.
He slammed those who distorted the facts to gain political mileage.
The surprise raid in Lutong town, some 12km from here, saw council officials nabbing dozens of traders selling farm produce, and seizing items including vegetables, fruits and meat products.
The council has been on the receiving end of backlash online following the operation. – The Vibes, July 27, 2021
