KOTA KINABALU: Security personnel arrested 18 undocumented suspects during an integrated operation in Tawau district.
In the raid on Thursday (Sept 26), security forces from the Eastern Sabah Security Command (Esscom) inspected 187 people, resulting in the arrest of 18 people for violations under the Immigration Act.
Esscom commander Deputy Comm Datuk Victor Sanjos reported that Road Transport Department officials also inspected 103 vehicles, issuing 41 summonses for various offences.
The operation was conducted at the Tawau Public Jetty and Kampung Kurnia Jaya Batu 4 Apas, with involvement from multiple agencies, including the police, General Operations Force, Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency, Customs Department, Immigration Department, National Registration Department, and Tawau Municipal Council.
"The main objective of this crackdown is to ensure safety and peace in the Eastern Sabah Security Zone (Esszone)," he said.
He emphasised efforts to combat cross-border crimes, including smuggling and encroachment by non-citizens.
DCP Victor highlighted the importance of enforcing laws to secure border entry and exit points, stressing the need to prevent further intrusions and maintain a zero rate of kidnap-for-ransom cases.
He noted that illegal immigrants often serve as informants for cross-border criminals in the Esszone.
He also thanked all agencies involved in the operation, aligning with Esscom's vision of “No day without operations.”
The public is encouraged to report suspicious activities in the Esszone to Esscom’s operations centre at 089-863181 or via WhatsApp at 011-63311072.
Previously, Tawau was subject to a curfew order due to a series of cross-border crimes, particularly kidnappings.
This order has since been rebranded as a Movement Control Order effective Oct 17, 2023, restricting activities within three nautical miles of the international borders in areas including Sandakan, Semporna, Kunak, Lahad Datu, Beluran, and Kinabatangan.
Activities at sea in these areas must be stopped between 6pm and 6am.
