KOTA KINABALU: Sabah’s ongoing squatter demolition exercise continues with its first operation of this year involving 55 illegal structures in the city on Thursday (Feb 6).
The Kota Kinabalu police headquarters issued a notice about the demolition exercise conducted with various government agencies including the National Registration Department, City Hall, Sabah Electricity, Land and Survey Department and the Chief Minister’s Department.
The statement stated that these structures were built illegally and did not comply with the required safety conditions and standards.
“This exercise is a continuation of the ongoing initiative to rid the state of illegal settlements and squatters, and to also ensure the safety and comfort of residents,” the statement read.
Such operations will continue as state authorities strive to fight against crime, illegal immigrants, drug abuse and social ills in the city and its surrounding areas, it added.
The series of demolition exercises have resulted in both positive and negative effects, with some non-governmental organisations and state leaders calling them inhumane while others approve of the initiative.
Some have said that alternative residential areas should be provided for these people while some argue that squatters should rent and find their own homes, rather than expect free accommodation.
