From 2004, PTU officers also presented greater public prominence when they conducted patrols in public areas to deter terrorism.
The PTU traces its history back to the early 1950s to contain situations of mass rioting and other disturbances to public peace. Hence in 1952, the first Riot Squad was formed; these officers underwent rigorous (military) training.
These officers formed the first riot control squad which became operational in December 1952 as the Reserve Unit (RU). Their responsibilities included crowd control, riot control, and provision of assistance during natural calamities such as fires and floods, thus three specially-trained squads were formed.
In 1953, the squad was reorganised into three units and renamed as the Police Reserve Unit (PRU); PRU 3 is located here at this former Jalan Bahar Camp.
Currently at this place, you can view the entire facilities is commercialized and the living quarters are now converted to 360 student hostel for the nearby tertiary institutes.