Seberang Jaya: Police seized 98 motorcycles belonging to 'mat rempit' (illegal street racers) in an integrated operation along the North-South Expressway (PLUS) from Seberang Jaya to Sama Gagah early today. The operation aimed to curb the rampant illegal street racing activities in the region.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Seberang Perai Tengah (SPT) District Police Headquarters (IPD) revealed in a statement that "Op Tutup Samseng Jalanan Bersepadu" was conducted to target illegal racing hotspots. During the operation, 350 motorcycles were inspected, resulting in the issuance of 245 summonses for various traffic offenses.

The statement also indicated that nine individuals were arrested under Section 42(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987, which pertains to reckless and dangerous driving. Authorities observed groups of teenage spectators gathering along the highway during these weekend races. The events posed significant risks as modified bikes reached excessive speeds, rode against traffic, and caused noise disturbances, endangering both the riders and other motorists.

The integrated operation was a collaborative effort involving personnel from the SPT Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Division, Seberang Jaya Police Station, Penang Contingent Headquarters, Bukit Aman Highway Patrol Unit (EMPV), and PLUS Auxiliary Police. The police have reminded the public to adhere to road laws and regulations to ensure everyone's safety. They emphasized that such operations would continue to be conducted regularly to deter illegal street racing activities.