RANAU: Traffic offenders along the busy Jalan Ranau-Tamparuli stretch are now being watched from above. Police are using drones to detect dangerous overtaking on double lines — a violation recently linked to a fatal crash in the district.
The operation, carried out by the Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Division of the Ranau District Police Headquarters (IPD), focused on high-risk areas at KM3 and KM9.
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By combining ground personnel with aerial monitoring, authorities were able to detect violations in real time, particularly motorists overtaking on double lines, a major contributor to serious and fatal road accidents.
The enforcement push comes in the wake of a tragedy along Jalan Ranau-Kota Belud, where a 19-year-old motorcyclist lost his life after a car allegedly overtook on a double line and collided with the motorcycle.
The impact caused the victim to lose control before being dragged under a lorry. He was pronounced dead at the scene due to severe injuries.
Ranau District Police Chief, Mursalin Mahmud, said initial investigations found the accident was triggered by the risky manoeuvre of overtaking on a double line.
“The case is being investigated under Section 41(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987. We urge road users to exercise caution and avoid dangerous actions such as overtaking at prohibited areas, which can have fatal consequences,” he said on Saturday.
He added that the latest operation reflects a more proactive and technology-driven approach to enforcement.
“This operation is not only about enforcement but also education. We want road users to understand the risks and consequences of reckless behaviour, especially dangerous overtaking,” he said when contacted.
During the operation, officers were strategically stationed at two separate locations, enabling simultaneous monitoring of traffic flow while a drone provided live aerial footage to support enforcement actions and detect offences such as illegal overtaking, traffic violations and dangerous driving.
Several summonses were issued, including five for overtaking on double lines. Offenders face a compound fine of up to RM300.
In more serious cases, action may be taken under Section 42(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987, which carries a maximum jail term of five years, fines ranging from RM5,000 to RM15,000, and disqualification from holding or obtaining a driving licence for at least two years upon conviction.
Police emphasised that the operation, dubbed “Ops Didik,” is also aimed at raising awareness among motorists on the importance of adhering to traffic laws to ensure the safety of all road users.
The operation concluded smoothly, achieving its objectives while underscoring the effectiveness of modern technology in strengthening road safety enforcement, a move authorities hope will help prevent further tragedies on Sabah’s roads.
