KOTA KINABALU: The Eastern Sabah Security Command (Esscom) has seized contraband cigarettes and tobacco worth over RM871,000 during a raid at a squatter colony in Lahad Datu on Tuesday.
Esscom commander DCP Datuk Victor Sanjos, in a statement, said a Filipino man and woman were arrested during the operation, though further details on the duo were not disclosed.
Acting on a public tip-off, authorities raided a house in a coastal squatter settlement in Kampung Bakau.
“The Esscom Security Division successfully confiscated 580,000 cigarette sticks of various brands and 440 small packets of tobacco, with an estimated post-tax value of RM871,854.40.
“The two suspects are believed to be actively involved in smuggling untaxed cigarettes in the district. They are currently being held under Section 6(1)(c) of the Immigration Act 1959/63, while the smuggling investigation falls under Section 135(1)(d) of the Customs Act 1967,” he said.
Among the seized cigarette brands were Astro Mentol King, Astro Ice Blue Berry, Astro Filter King, Era Premium, Tex Mentol, Nice, Menara Dunia, and Gudang Garam. Authorities also discovered Tembakau Sgog concealed in boxes and plastic packaging.
Additionally, a four-wheel-drive vehicle and three outboard engine boats, believed to be used for smuggling activities and valued at RM62,000, were confiscated. The total value of seized items stands at RM933,854.40.
Victor said the successful operation underscored Esscom’s commitment to combating cross-border crimes in the Eastern Sabah Security Zone (Esszone).
He emphasised that the agency would continue conducting special operations, particularly in tracing foreign quarters, to prevent elements that could threaten security, peace, and public order along Sabah’s east coast.
“I urge the public to report any suspicious activities to the Esscom operations centre at 089-863181 or via WhatsApp at 011-63311072.
“At the same time, we will enhance coordination of joint operations with other security forces to apprehend individuals with ill intentions who seek to disrupt the country’s peace and security,” he added.
