The Selangor government is mulling a proposal to equip local government enforcement officers with tasers, the state executive councillor in charge of local government, Teng Chang Khim, said.

"It is very safe, as recommended by the police. We will study... and we will get the police to assist us.

NONE "We will make an announcement once everything firms up," Teng said when met by reporters during lunch break at the Selangor state legislative assembly sitting today.

Earlier, he revealed to the state assembly that the government was considering equipping the enforcement officers with tasers because they faced safety risks when conducting raids on illegal gambling dens.

A taser, usually pistol-like in appearance, fires darts that incapacitate those hit with jolts of electricity.

It is generally considered a less-than-lethal weapon but has caused death in rare cases, particularly when used on people with heart problems.

Local council by-laws to be tightened

Teng said the suggestion was made during a meeting between him and mayors and local council presidents in the state last week.

In addition, he said, it was agreed at the meeting that tougher laws are needed to tackle illegal gambling dens.

Under the existing local government by-laws, equipment confiscated during raids on gambling dens would have to be returned after the operators pay a fine of RM1,000.

Under a proposal to amend the by-laws in the state, Teng said, the equipment seized would no longer be returned and illegal gambling den operators could face stiffer penalties, such as a fine or a prison term.

The proposals are to be tabled at the state exco meeting after the current state assembly sitting ends on Dec 2.