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In a recent crackdown, the police arrested eleven bank security guards in Sabak Bernam and Kuala Selangor on February 6 and 7, citing violations of licensing conditions due to the improper storage of firearms at their homes. Selangor police chief Datuk Hussein Omar Khan revealed that, based on gathered intelligence, the arrests were made at the guards' residences, resulting in the seizure of 11 pump gun barrels, 55 bullets, and a car.
The investigation brought to light a concerning practice among the security guards. After completing their shifts, these guards were storing their firearms at home, often under beds, beside or inside wardrobes, and even in their cars. Additionally, it was discovered that the guards transported these firearms on their motorcycles in an unsafe manner, lacking proper security measures. The guards claimed they received instructions from their company to keep the weapons at home post-shift.
This alarming pattern had reportedly been ongoing for about two years, and further scrutiny revealed that the security company, licensed in Kuala Lumpur, had committed five previous offenses since 2015. The male guards, all locals, now face charges of violating licensing conditions under Section 8(b) of the Firearms Act 1960. If convicted, they could be sentenced to up to seven years in prison or a fine of RM10,000.
Simultaneously, the police are launching an investigation into the involved security company. If found guilty, the company's license could face revocation. Hussein emphasized the importance of adherence to licensing conditions by companies holding firearms. He stressed the need for enhanced firearm safety measures, urging security companies to prioritize safety over cost-cutting initiatives. This call to action aims to prevent potential incidents such as armed robberies, extortion, or the loss and theft of firearms.
This incident serves as a reminder of the critical role security companies play in maintaining public safety. Proper protocols and adherence to regulations are imperative to ensure the responsible handling and storage of firearms, preventing any compromise of security that could lead to serious criminal activities. As the investigation unfolds, authorities will likely scrutinize the security company's practices and determine the necessary actions to safeguard against similar breaches in the future.
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