Police to boost intelligence, early threat detection at airports
Deploying police personnel with the Aviation Security (AVSEC) team will strengthen intelligence sharing and rapid response to security threats in the aviation sector, says the IGP.
PETALING JAYA – The involvement of the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) in the Aviation Security (AVSEC) team is expected to strengthen intelligence sharing, early detection, enforcement coordination and swift action against security threats and criminal activity in the aviation sector.
Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Mohd Khalid Ismail said the police, together with the Home Ministry, the Transport Ministry and related agencies, are finalising the implementation mechanism, covering the scope of duties, deployment locations, manpower requirements, areas of responsibility and operational coordination.
He said the move is part of efforts to strengthen a more comprehensive and layered aviation security system, including tighter access control, screening procedures, security checks, risk assessment and strategic cooperation among all agencies and stakeholders.
“Stricter, integrated and intelligence-based security controls are believed to be able to enhance prevention capabilities, reduce risks and close any gaps that could potentially be exploited by irresponsible parties.
“PDRM gives its assurance that aviation security and the security of the country's entry and exit points will continue to be a priority,” he said in a statement here today.
Mohd Khalid said any attempt to use the aviation industry as a channel for criminal activity would be dealt with firmly and without compromise.
“PDRM welcomes the Cabinet's decision to implement immediate improvements to the country's aviation security controls, including the involvement of police personnel in AVSEC.
“PDRM is committed to giving its full cooperation to make the decision a success,” he said.
Earlier, the government ordered several immediate improvements, including placing police personnel in the AVSEC team, following the arrest of a Malaysia Airlines pilot in Indonesia last week on suspicion of drug smuggling.
Unity Government spokesman Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil said the decision was made at a Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Fahmi said the Home Ministry and the police were also asked to examine aspects that could be abused, including any loopholes in the existing system.
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