Robbery Tops List Of Crimes
By Nasroul Hizam

Bandar Seri Begawan - Robbery topped the list of Brunei's most reported common crimes, with an increase of 359 cases in 2006 to 443 cases last year, said a police official.

ASP Hj Md Khairul Amilin Hj Idris yesterday said that illegal entry and robbery, automobile theft, automobile breakins, damage to property and causing bodily harm were among the most common crimes reported during the past three years.

During a gathering for penghulus and village heads, the police officer said that a house would usually be broken into with a sharp object, such as a screwdriver or by cutting locks, through unlocked or open windows and doors.

In some cases, criminals may even break through doors or windows at the back of the house which is usually the least guarded, he said.

He advised the public to inform the nearest police station if their house will be left empty for an extended period of time and added that equipping the house with devices such as CCTV would be an additional precaution.

But something that everyone can do is to secure all doors and windows before leaving the house or before going to bed, ensuring clean surroundings and avoid leaving things that criminals can make use of such as ladders, and to switch on some lights at night to deter criminals, he said. In the event of a crime, he reminded those present not to panic and to immediately call the nearest police station or to dial 993. He also told them to refrain from touching or changing the scene of the crime.

About 30 penghulus and village heads attended the gathering to mark the 87th anniversary of the Royal Brunei Police Force this year.

Police Commissioner Pehin Datu Kerma Setia Dato Paduka Seri Zainuddin Jalani was also present.

Senior Superintendent Pg Hj Rakit Pg Hj Osman said that the event was aimed at fostering closer ties between the police and society through penghulus and village heads. It was also an opportunity to disseminate information as well as to maintain harmony in their respective areas.

Calling on the public to step up efforts and cooperation to prevent crimes, the senior superintendent called on penghulus and village heads to be more proactive in order to protect the residents. "Monitor the youth to steer them away from drug abuse, deviant teachings and anti-social activities," he advised.

He said that both the police and the public must understand that both parties need each other to perform their functions optimally.-- Courtesy of The Brunei Times

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