By Zaki Salleh
Photo Fb PDRM
IPOH: The determination to combat crimes involving wildlife is intensified through the establishment of the Wildlife Crime Bureau (WCB)/Special Investigations Division (PSK).
This bureau falls under the Ministry of Home Affairs and Public Security of the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM).
The establishment of WCB aims to support the government’s efforts in safeguarding and preserving the nation’s treasures from any criminal threats, including on a global scale.
PDRM has taken steps to merge this unit with the existing Special Investigations Division (CPSK) under the Ministry of Home Affairs and Public Security, renaming it as WCB/PSK.
Previously, the inauguration ceremony of WCB/PSK was officiated by the Chief of Police, Tan Sri Razarudin Husain, at the Pusat Latihan Pasukan Gerakan Am (PGA), Ulu Kinta.
During the press conference held, Razarudin stated that the importance of establishing WCB/PSK is due to the threat faced by the Malayan tiger population.
He mentioned that the market value of the Malayan tiger, reaching up to US$55,000, has attracted the interest of illegal hunters.
“PDRM and the Department of Wildlife and National Parks (PERHILITAN) intend to increase the penalties and fines under the Wildlife Conservation Act 2010.
“The current fine of RM500,000 will be raised to RM1 million, and the prison term for illegal hunters will be increased from 10 years to 15 years,” he said.
