Esscom: No brute force against illegal immigrants

LAHAD DATU: The Eastern Sabah Security Command (Esscom) is denying allegations that it had used brute force in the on-going large-scale integrated operation to flush out illegal immigrants in the Eastern Sabah Security Zone (Esszone).

Esscom commander Deputy Comm Datuk Abdul Rashid Harun said security forces did not "marginalise or victimise” business operators or even illegal immigrants in the discharge of their official duties and responsibilities.

"We are bound by a standard procedure as provided for under the law.

"We are not acting alone during operations but we work alongside with other enforcement agencies such as the Immigration, Royal Customs and Excise Department, as well as relevant state agencies.

"It's impossible for a member or officer of an agency or Esscom to use brute or excessive force without being noticed or without any reports by other agencies that were involved," he said in a statement here, Thursday.

Abdul Rashid was commenting on the statement by Tawau Chinese Chambers of Commerce president Lo Su Fui on Wednesday, claiming that Esscom personnel were being unprofessional and behaving like thugs during operations against illegal immigrants in Esszone.

In this regard, Abdul Rashid advised victims, including business operators, to lodge a report with the police or the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission.

"They should come up with a strong evidence in order for the relevant authorities to take appropriate action or otherwise it's only a mere allegation without proof," he said.

Abdul Rashid said that Esscom adopts a business-friendly approach in tackling illegal immigrants in Esszone, but would not compromise on matters of national security.