Police target dark, abandoned and neglected spots in nationwide crime drive, starting with Penang

The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) has launched its Whitening The Black Spot initiative across Penang in an effort to combat crime and enhance community safety. The initiative, led by Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Mohd Khalid Ismail, will commence with a month-long rollout in the black spots identified in the state. Collaborating with various agencies, including Bukit Aman Crime Prevention and Community Safety Department, Penang police chief Datuk Dennis Lim Kwang Keng, and community leaders, the PDRM aims to transform neglected areas into safer spaces through a multi-faceted approach.

This approach includes patrols, focused operations, improvements to CCTV systems, community programmes, safety education, and social interventions. The pilot locations for the initiative are Bukit Jambul, Sungai Nibong, Kampung Ujong Batu, Permatang Pauh, Sungai Rambai, Pondok Upeh, and Bukit Panchor. The initiative is grounded in Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) principles, focusing on elements such as lighting, cleanliness, maintenance, and public facilities to deter criminal activity.