20-4-2024 (KUALA LUMPUR) Security measures at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) have been significantly bolstered in response to a recent shooting incident that occurred at Terminal 1, leaving a bodyguard critically wounded. The police force has doubled its personnel and intensified patrols within the airport premises.
According to Selangor police chief Comm Datuk Hussein Omar Khan, the General Operations Force (PGA) has been mobilised to both terminals of the airport. He disclosed that the number of general duty policemen, commonly referred to as “blue uniforms,” has been doubled compared to previous deployments. Additionally, fully-equipped PGA officers are now conducting patrols at entry points and around the airport buildings.
While specific figures regarding manpower were not provided, Comm Hussein highlighted plans to introduce the use of escooters for patrols in the near future. This initiative aims to enhance the police force’s response time and coverage area during security patrols.
The PGA, operating under the purview of the Bukit Aman Internal Security and Public Order Department, typically assists in various aspects of public security, counter-terrorism operations, and border security. Notably, it includes the elite Senoi Praaq unit, comprised of Orang Asli PGA personnel specialised in deep jungle reconnaissance work.
The heightened security measures follow an alarming incident on April 14, when KLIA was rocked by a shooting incident targeting a woman at the arrival hall. Farah Md Isa, a travel agency owner awaiting the return of her clients from umrah (mini-pilgrimage), narrowly escaped harm when a gunman opened fire at close range. However, her bodyguard, Muhammad Nur Hadith, sustained critical injuries while shielding her.
The suspect fled the scene but was later apprehended by police in Kota Baru, Kelantan, approximately 38 hours after the shooting. Identified as Hafizul Harawi, he has been remanded for seven days to facilitate investigations into the attempted murder.
In the wake of the incident, Comm Hussein had advocated for enhancements to airport security measures, particularly addressing potential vulnerabilities at entry doors. He proposed the installation of metal scanners at all entry points, a decision that rests with the airport management.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke underscored the necessity for collaborative efforts between the police, National Security Council, and Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB) to implement security-enhancing measures at the airports.
