Two Youths Arrested for Illegal Street Racing in Kedah

Authorities in Alor Setar have apprehended two young men for participating in illegal street racing, a dangerous activity that had been causing distress to local residents. The arrests were made during 'Operasi Cegah Samseng Jalanan' (Operation Prevent Road Bullies) on Jalan Padang Garam, Kuala Kedah. The duo, aged 20 and 22, were reportedly racing modified Yamaha LC135 and Yamaha Y15Z motorcycles at speeds exceeding 100 kilometers per hour around 6 p.m., with hundreds of spectators present. Kota Setar District Police Chief Assistant Commissioner Syed Basri Syed Ali stated that the operation, involving 47 officers, was a response to numerous complaints about the illegal racing. Police believe the area had become a popular spot for such activities over the past three weeks due to its favorable road conditions and long, straight stretches. Both suspects, one unemployed and the other a lorry attendant, were detained after being observed racing. Their motorcycles had been significantly modified from their original specifications, including smaller tires and altered frames. One suspect had a prior record, having been arrested in May for similar offenses. They were remanded for one day and are being investigated under Section 42(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987. In the broader operation, police inspected 272 motorcycles and issued 213 summonses for various traffic violations, also seizing 25 motorcycles for non-compliance with regulations, including structural modifications.

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We believe the area has been used as a 'port' for racing for about three weeks due to good road conditions and a three-kilometer straight path.