No truth to viral statement claiming 'hundreds' of robbers waiting in JB for S’pore tourists when border reopens: Johor police

SINGAPORE — Johor police have dismissed a viral statement that Singaporeans may face snatch thieves in the state when the border between Malaysia and Singapore reopens, saying that it is false.

Johor police posted the viral statement, titled “Don’t go to Johor Bahru now. Many robberies”, on its Facebook page on Wednesday (Nov 24) night with the Malay word for “fake” stamped across it.

The statement, in English and in Chinese, had claimed that “hundreds of motorcycle robbers” are waiting for Singapore tourists outside malls.

It further claimed that the robbers will “take out their knives and slash you” if you do not comply with their demands and that the police will “turn a blind eye” because there are too many robbers.

Malaysian news agency Bernama quoted Johor police chief Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay as saying on Wednesday that the police would take stern action against irresponsible parties for spreading fake information, rumours or unverified news on the matter.

His comments came ahead of Singapore and Malaysia launching a vaccinated travel lane by land on Nov 29.

Under the first phase of this arrangement, vaccinated travellers need not serve quarantine and must use designated bus services plying the Causeway between Singapore and Johor Baru.

Travellers must also be citizens, permanent residents or long-term pass holders of the country that they are entering.

The police chief said that the overall crime index in the state from January this year up until Tuesday fell by 2,610 cases, or about 40 per cent, and that the situation is under control.

“Snatch thefts in Johor in the same period also recorded a fall of 125 cases, which is equivalent to 77.64 per cent compared with last year,” he said.

“Similarly, motorcycle thefts also dropped by 1,099 cases or 51.05 per cent.”

He added that the police will continue to act aggressively to eradicate crimes and ensure that the state is safe to live in and visit.

He also advised the public to verify information received through social media.