JPJ to launch special operation against overloading

PERMATANG PAUH: Road Transport Department (RTD) enforcement officers can now open investigation papers (IPs) against overloaded lorries or those carrying dangerous cargo after obtaining the green light from the Attorney General's Chambers (AGC).
RTD director-general Datuk Seri Ismail Ahmad said this will allow officers to send IPs directly to the deputy public prosecutor (DPP) for further action instead of via the Land Public Transport Commission (SPAD) first.
He said the move allowed action against offenders under the Road Transport Act 1987 where those convicted for overloading or transporting hazardous goods face a maximum RM500,000 fine or maximum two-year prison stay.
He said RTD officers could start opening IPs from Dec 1.
"We obtained the approval from the AGC on Oct 20, this is a quick and easy process for our officers to conduct enforcement exercises," he said in a press conference today after a meet-the-staff session with 500 personnel here.
In his speech earlier, Ismail said the RTD will be launching an RTD Cadet programme in secondary schools to reach out to the public.
"Sixteen schools will be involved in the pilot project and we will continue to expand the programme throughout 2015," he said.