Obstructing Traffic During Election Campaign Can Lead To Arrest

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 26 (Bernama) -- Campaign workers for the March 8 general election and supporters of political parties, be warned!

Those who obstruct traffic or violate traffic rules, in their eagerness to campaign will face the wrath of the police.

The offences include placing large party flags on their vehicles, parking vehicles haphazardly, and placing flag poles, banners and posters on road signages which could confuse road users.

Singling out the 'mat rempits' or illegal racers hired as campaign workers, the police have warned them not to engage in motorcycle stunts on their way home, after a day's campaign.

Federal traffic police chief, Datuk Hamza Taib told a press conference today that those committing serious traffic offences such as riding a motorcycle dangerously and endangering the lives of others would be detained under Section 42(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987.

Upon conviction, offenders risk a jail term of not more than five years or fine of not more than RM15,000.

Hamza said they could also face action under Section 279 of the Penal Code, involved a maximum imprisonment of six years or a RM2,000 fine or both, upon conviction.

He said more than 5,000 traffic policemen were mobilised to ensure smooth-flowing traffic during the general election period.

-- BERNAMA