APC Guardian, STR Strengthen Malaysia-Thailand Border Crime Prevention

PASIR MAS (Kelantan, Malaysia), Sept 1 (Bernama) -- The deployment of the Guardian armoured personnel carrier (APC) and Surveillance Thermal Radar (STR) in Op Taring Wawasan Kelantan since Aug 26 is strengthening the General Operations Force (PGA)'s ability to patrol, monitor and prevent cross-border crime along the Malaysia-Thailand border.

Malaysia’s PGA (General Operations Force) Southeast Brigade Commander SAC (Senior Assistant Commissioner of Police) Ahmad Radzi Hussain said the deployment of the two high-capability assets was an additional measure to enhance the force's readiness following developments in the security situation in southern Thailand.

“The deployment is in line with operational directives to increase vehicle patrols, particularly in border areas identified as vulnerable to smuggling, intrusion and cross-border crime,” he said in a statement
.
He said both assets were focused particularly on areas along the Golok River, one of the border stretches vulnerable to various forms of cross-border activity.

“The Guardian APC provides stronger and more resilient patrol capabilities in operational areas, while the STR enhances surveillance of movement and activities along the border through radar and thermal-infrared technology,” he said.

Ahmad Radzi said the Guardian APC is operated by drivers from the Armoured Squadron of the Southeast Brigade PGA, together with four crew members, while the STR is operated by four technical platoon personnel from the 8th PGA Battalion trained in handling the asset.

“Although there have been no arrests or seizures of smuggled goods directly linked to the deployment of these two assets since Aug 26, their effectiveness is not measured solely by the number of arrests or seizures.

“The presence of these assets forms part of a deterrence strategy by increasing the risks for anyone intending to engage in smuggling, intrusion or cross-border crime,” he said.

He said the Guardian APC and STR also sent a clear signal that border security remained at a high state of readiness, while strengthening public confidence in the government's efforts to safeguard national security and sovereignty.

“Our priority is to ensure that the security, sovereignty and integrity of the country's borders are always protected,” he added.
-- BERNAMA