PENAMPANG: Police have apprehended three drivers involved in the dangerous overtaking incident on Penampang-Tambunan Road that was captured in a viral video.
Penampang District Police Chief Supt Sammy Newton said the 27-second video circulated on social media showed three vehicles dangerously overtaking a lorry at a double-line bend, forcing oncoming traffic to stop abruptly to avoid a collision.
“The incident occurred around 1.41pm on March 16 at a dangerous curve clearly marked with double lines prohibiting overtaking,” said Sammy, in a statement, Tuesday.
“What we witnessed in that video was not just a traffic violation, but a reckless disregard for human life that could have ended in tragedy,” he said.
Police investigations led to the swift identification of all three drivers involved.
Their vehicles have been impounded at the Penampang District Police Headquarters for further investigation.
“We have identified and detained all three drivers responsible for this dangerous driving incident,” Sammy said.“They have been released on police bail while the investigation continues,” he added.
The case is being investigated under Section 42(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987, which carries a maximum penalty of five years’ imprisonment and a fine of up to RM15,000, on conviction.
Police are appealing for witnesses to come forward with additional information to assist with the investigation. Witnesses are encouraged to contact the investigating officer, Inspector Amrin Mohamad Arif, at 017-6638278.
“I urge all road users to prioritise safety above all else when driving,” said Sammy. “Road rules exist to protect everyone, and dangerous driving behaviour like what we saw in this video puts innocent lives at risk unnecessarily,” he said.
