Incidents like snatch thefts, robberies and car break-ins are becoming rampant in these public housing areas that residents are now living in fear.
Bernama went to some of these housing areas and talked to some of the residents.
A check at the Seri Kelantan housing project here recently found the entrance to be unmanned, the area deserted and dark due to poor lighting.
Thick bushes and undergrowth surround the dimly lighted alternative walkways often used by pedestrians, making the lanes eerie.
It is learned that the gates at the two entrances to the area are never locked, giving free access to outsiders to enter the area.
The wire fencing to protect the housing area too has been damaged and vandalised.
A resident, K. Karthik, 22, claimed he was robbed once by a group of men while he was walking back to his house in the area.
The college student said though it had been a year since the incident happened he was still afraid to walk alone in the area, even during daytime.
“I have no other choice but to continue using this lane, especially to go to nearby shops as this is the shortest route from my house,” he told Bernama.
Meanwhile a check at the Sri Perak housing area found several public amenities poorly maintained.
Mariam Hassan, 58, who has been residing in the area for the past 30 years, said the lights near the lift area on her floor had been damaged, making it a conducive hideout for criminals.
“Once a motorcycle thief hid in the dark corner when he was chased by residents here. It was only after sometime that he was discovered as the place was pitch dark,” she added.
Mariam said although residents had complained about the damaged lights to the residents’ association and DBKL staff here, they fell on deaf ears.
Another resident, who only wanted to be known as Rozali, 35, said apart from the poor maintenance of public facilities, car break-ins were also common in the housing area.
“The people creating trouble in our area are mostly outsiders, not the residents here. It is easy for them to enter and leave this area as there are no security gates or wall fencing to stop them,” he said.
However, attempts to get comments from the residents’ associations of both public housing areas were futile.
– BERNAMA