AES now under police control: Home Minister

KUALA TERENGGANU - HOME Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi yesterday confirmed that the police had taken over the Automatic Enforcement System (AES).

"Yes, I confirm that the AES operation has been handed over to the police with immediate effect. From now on, the operation of the system will be under the police," he said yesterday.

Ahmad Zahid was commenting on speculation that the police would take over the AES operation from the two concessionaires that were awarded the contract.

Although Ahmad Zahid did not give any details, his confirmation ended speculation over whether the police would take over the AES.

On Saturday, the New Straits Times quoted sources as saying that the police would likely take over the AES.

The move was aimed at ensuring the system acted as a deterrent and not to make profit, the source said.

Last Tuesday, it was reported that the government was expected to announce its decision on AES this week.

Acting Transport Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein was quoted as saying that the steering committee on AES operation and enforcement he chaired was close to a decision.

"There are two main issues surrounding AES.

"First, the public does not want to see enforcement being privatised.

"This is a job for the police and Road Transport Department but it had been privatised and led to negative traction.

"Second, (they do not want) the returns from the fines to go to a private entity."

Hishamuddin said three sub-committees had been formed to look into aspects concerning the takeover, including financial issues covering commissions and compensations for the two private concessionaires, Bina Tegap Sdn Bhd and ATES Sdn Bhd, and legal matters arising from the takeover.