Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said today he did not think it was premature of the Home Ministry to reveal the names of the 49 secret societies even though the 'Ops Cantas' operation to weed out criminals was launched only on Aug 23.

The prime minister said the people anticipated firm action by the authorities following recent reports of an increase in violent crimes.

"The people look forward to firm and effective action by the authorities. These are the measures initiated by the government for earnest and comprehensive implementation through the Home Ministry and the Royal Malaysia Police," he told a news conference after chairing a meeting of the Bumiputera Agenda Action Council at his office, here.

Home Ministry secretary-general Datuk Seri Abdul Rahim Mohamad Radzi, at a news conference today, announced a list of 49 secret societies categorised as illegal.

The secret societies include the 04 Gang active in Kedah, Penang, Johor and Kuala Lumpur; the 08 Gang active in Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Penang, Perak, Johor, Negeri Sembilan and Melaka and the Double 7 active throughout peninsular Malaysia.

Najib said the action taken by the police and the Home Ministry had the support of the people who wanted to live in a peaceful country.

"The people must be able to live in a country where they feel safe. We will not compromise on that. In fact, I have asked the police to make it on ongoing exercise.

"This must be a relentless fight against crime. This is not witch-hunting. This is what is desired by the people. We want to live in the country, free from any fear. Then, we have to fight crime, especially organised crime," he said. On another matter, the prime minister said all members of the administration should be aligned in giving their opinions.

"As members of the administration, we have to be aligned, meaning our opinions must be in sync with those of the other members. That's the principle," he said.