UNMANNED aerial vehicles will take to the sky as police intensify efforts to enforce unauthorised civilian ground movements.
The Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia has authorised police to operate UAVs or drones for surveillance and enforcement during the ongoing Movement Control Order (MCO) Phase 2.
“A Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) has been issued to notify all airspace users that a UAS or drone activity operation is done at a maximum 500ft above ground level. This NOTAM applies nationwide and is valid until April 14,” Bernama quoted a CAAM statement.
CAAM said their authorisation was required for drone operations as it may cause hazards to other airspace users and endanger public safety due to the extensive coverage of the operations.
With an eye in the sky, avid shutterbugs should take note that unauthorised photography, recording policemen manning roadblocks nationwide was not allowed.
Authorities have concluded there were those who were clicking away with the intention of creating a negative perception over social media.
“Those who contravene will face stern action,” Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Abdul Hamid Bador was quoted over Bernama.
“I want to stress that the police roadblocks were not being mounted nationwide just for the fun of curbing movement or causing inconvenience to the public.
“Individuals who do that (record and take photographs with the intention of casting a bad image on the police) are strongly reminded that there are many parties who are keeping their eye on you and waiting to arrest you.
“If they have gone out to purchase goods, it is not a problem, but if they purposely go out to record the roadblocks, then it is an offence because the police who are performing their duties are not there to be filmed or are on show.”
Police were also aware of a spike with online gambling and smuggling during the MCO.
