Reckless, dangerous driving cases surge nearly 50%, say cops

Bukit Aman says cases under investigation has increased from 852, in the first six months of last year, to 1,278 for the same period in 2026.

Bukit Aman traffic investigation and enforcement department director Hasbullah Ali said this increase reflects a worrying trend of aggressive driving, which could lead to road bullying or road rage incidents, Bernama reported.

He said 1,278 investigation papers were opened from Jan 1 to June 28 this year, compared with 852 cases in the same period last year, or an increase of 426 cases.

According to Hasbullah, Johor recorded the highest number of cases under investigation this year with 354, almost double the 179 cases for the same period last year.

He said the statistics showed that other states also recorded significant increases, with Kuala Lumpur having 230 cases, up from 156, Selangor (200, up from 83), Negeri Sembilan (119, up from 63), Terengganu (49, up from 23) and Perak (60, up from 40).

Sarawak, Kedah and Pahang also registered minor increases, he added.

However, he said, Kelantan’s 84 cases from January to June last year remained unchanged for the same period in 2026, while Penang, Sabah, Perlis and Melaka all recorded declines in the number of cases.

“The main causes of road bullying include non-compliance with traffic rules and signals, aggressive driving such as dangerous overtaking, cutting in, tailgating and failure to give way,” Hasbullah was quoted as saying.

Hasbullah said police will continue to take firm action against road rage incidents, where offenders may be arrested and charged if the case involves threats, fights, property damage or injury.

He added that existing laws are sufficient to address road rage, with additional action also taken under the Penal Code depending on the offence.

On viral road rage videos, Hasbullah said swift police action is important to show that all complaints are taken seriously and to strengthen public confidence in enforcement.

However, he said viral videos only provide initial information, and each case is investigated professionally using CCTV footage, dashcam recordings, witness statements and digital forensic evidence before any action is taken.

He said the public is encouraged to submit dashcam or CCTV footage when witnessing offences.