JOHOR BARU – Police multipurpose vehicle (MPV) patrolmen nationwide are now provided with new safety vests – Reflective Bullet Proof Vest Level II With Anti Stab – to avoid threats and risks of injury while on duty.
Bukit Aman Crime Prevention and Community Safety Department director Datuk Zainal Abidin Kasim said 800 units have been distributed under the first phase, with priority given to all contingents.
He said that distribution of these safety vests took into consideration the frequency of incidents of criminal cases and level of risk a certain unit faces, and the MPV patrolmen’s scope of duty requires them to have the vests.
According to him, the new safety vests can last 10 years and provide ballistic protection against shots from 9mm-calibre bullets.
“It also provides protection from stabs caused by sharp implements such as knives, besides being able to reflect light as protection for members on duty at night or in dark conditions.
“Large contingents such as Johor’s were given 100 units because of the high risks involved, similar to those in Kuala Lumpur, Selangor and Penang,” he said.
He was speaking to reporters after the Reflective Bullet Proof Vest Level II With Anti Stab and 400 Women’s Safe Squad Shirts (Amanita) handover ceremony at the Johor Police Contingent Headquarters here today.
Previously, Zainal said MPV members were only supplied with light reflective jackets that did not have safety features, and this new safety vest has been seen to boost the members’ confidence while on duty.
He said there are 3,000 MPV patrolmen nationwide and about 6,000 units of safety vests are needed. For the first phase, 800 units were given by the government through the 2018 Budget after the items underwent endurance tests at the end of last year.
“If there are additional safety vests, we also want personnel in other departments to wear them while on duty,” he added. – Bernama, December 28, 2020
