IPOH: Security at the border towns between the country and Thailand will be beefed up following a kidnapping attempt of a young girl in Gerik.

Perak police chief Comm Datuk Azizi Mat Aris said more roadblocks would be set up in Gerik and Pengkalan Hulu to ensure the safety of its people, especially children.

"We know that one of the vehicles used by the suspects has a number plate from a neighbouring country.

"My advice to (OCPD) Pengkalan Hulu is to use the roadblocks as a source to gather information while also continuing with their duties," he said in a press conference after attending a state police contingent-held nasyid contest at the state secretariat building here on Friday (Oct 25).

"We are still trying to track down the suspects involved and witnesses to help with the investigations.

"We will also collaborate with our neighbour country to get information, including checking CCTV footage near the borders," he added.

It was reported that a kidnapping attempt on a 14-year-old girl nearly happened near the Kampung Padang Muslim burial ground in Gerik on Monday (Oct 21).

Two vans boxed in the girl, who was cycling to school at about 6:45 a.m.

A woman who spotted the incident called out to the girl, which prompted the two vehicles to speed away.

There was also supposedly a similar case involving another 14-year-old girl in Gerik on Tuesday (Oct 22), but it turned out to be a fictional tale based on her dream.

When asked whether the case would be flagged as NFA (no further action), Comm Azizi said the investigation would still be carried out.

"We will consider all angles until we are satisfied with the investigation and will refer to the Deputy Public Prosecutor to determine the next course of action," he said.