KOTA KINABALU: More allocations are needed to upgrade security assets in Sabah as newer tactics are being used to smuggle illegal immigrants into the state, says a crime prevention group.
Mohd Zaki Harry Susanto, advisor of the Sabah Drugs and Crime Prevention Organisation, said that smugglers are using more cunning tactics to evade authorities.
“From information gathered, smugglers would work with public transport operators to sneak in illegal immigrants using express buses,” he said in a statement.
Illegal immigrants would disembark before checkpoints and be hidden in modified compartments underneath the bus to pass inspection, Zaki alleged.
After passing through checkpoints, these hidden illegal immigrants would then be allowed to re-enter the bus.
He believes bus drivers and conductors would work with these illegal immigrants or their agents for a hefty payment.
“Just imagine how many of them slip into the state if one bus brings in two or three of them each day,” he asked.
Thus, it was vital for more focus to be placed on the Eastern Sabah Security Command (Esscom) and to upgrade assets at strategic locations like road checkpoints (RCP) at Sapi Nangoh and Kalabakan, said Zaki.
“These two RCPs are among the main routes for thousands of vehicles every day,” he said, adding that the RM21.2bil budget for 2026 meant for the Home Ministry can be used for this.
Other than assets and facilities, agencies under the ministry including the police, the Malaysia Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) and Esscom must be upgraded and strengthened, he said.
Zaki said the existing security forces and the proactive measures taken to minimise and prevent crime were commendable as they have been doing a good job.
However, with evolving technology, it was important that the security force be equipped with updated screening and detection systems, coupled with more training for the workforce, he said.
These approaches are also useful for detection of illegal substances and contraband, he added.
Zaki said Sabah’s security, especially in high risk areas, must be enhanced with holistic measures in place, including physical assets, technology, and taking care of staff welfare.
