Deputy IGP: Security forces still negotiating release of sailors

KOTA KINABALU: Security forces here are still negotiating for the release of five Malaysian sailors taken from waters off Dent Haven in Lahad Datu in July last year, said the Deputy Inspector-General of Police.  

Tan Sri Noor Rashid Ibrahim (pix) said middlemen were trying their best to negotiate and secure the safe release of the hostages. 

He also said that the five, Abdul Rahim Summas, 62, Tayuddin Anjut, 45, Mohd Ridzuan Ismail, 32, Fandy Bakran, 26, and Mohd Zumadil Rahim, 23, were reported safe and well. 

The sailors, who were snatched from their tugboat on July 18, are in the hands of Abu Sayyaf kidnappers believed held in the jungles of Jolo, Philippines. 

“We will not leave Sabah to deal with this matter alone. 

"We in Bukit Aman are constantly monitoring and assisting to secure their release,” he said after witnessing the handing over of Sabah Police Commissioner duties from Datuk Abdul Rashid Harun to Datuk Ramli Din here on Tuesday. 

It was reported that the kidnappers were seeking 100 million pesos (RM8.5mil) for the release of the sailors. 

On whether to continue Sabah’s dusk-to-dawn sea curfew, Noor Rashid said this would be decided by the police and Government. 

He, however, agreed that the curfew was still relevant and needed. 

Meanwhile, Abdul Rashid in his departing speech, expressed his confidence in Ramli doing a good job as the new Sabah Police Commissioner. 

“We have faced numerous challenges and threats in Sabah from criminals but I'm sure the new police commissioner will be able to handle these well. 

“I hope all department chiefs and policemen will give their fullest cooperation to the new police commissioner in bid to keep Sabah safe from criminal elements,” he said. 

Ramli, who had served as Malacca’s police chief for about a year, vowed to continue safeguarding the sovereignty of the state and to improve in areas where needed. 

“I will continue what Rashid has left behind and will do my best in ensuring the safety of the people in Sabah,” he said. 

Abdul Rashid retired after serving the police force for 41 years.