LETTER | Each time the police arrest a lawbreaker, we often hear that the criminal had several past records of running foul of the law. 

What is puzzling is why were past arrests and punishments unable to set such criminals onto a recovery and law-abiding pathway.

Questions arise. Were the arrested criminals let off with a gentle slap? Are our laws and the inherent punishments not an effective deterrent? Or are these repeat criminals real hardcore offenders who are beyond salvation?

Whether it is a suspect arrested for drug dealings, robbery, gangsterism, traffic offences, etc the news reports in most cases (if not always), state that police confirmed that the suspect had several past cases of breaking the law. 

Indeed it is most worrisome witnessing the growing, daring stunts of criminals on the loose.

The most recent videos on social and news media of a “drug towkey” who turned the street into a movie-like race track escapade sends shivers down the spine. 

The same can be said for commercial vehicle drivers. Many of them have been booked for traffic offences and have a string of past records. 

And what about the mat rempits? I wonder how many thousands of repeat offenders persist on the roads with their mad and dangerous stunts despite the countless traffic operations? 

Perhaps it is time for the Madani government to re-look into biting reforms to help stem such repeat lawbreakers with a string of past records. 

Failure to arrest this problem will only erode public confidence further. 

The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.