Esscom ops in Kalabakan see 37 people nabbed

KOTA KINABALU: Undocumented migrants, suspected drug addicts and smugglers were among 37 people detained during a two-day integrated operation led by the Eastern Sabah Security Command (Esscom) in Sabah’s southern Kalabakan district.

The two-day operation that started on May 3, and which involved various state and federal agencies, was aimed at curbing the smuggling of controlled and subsidised goods as well as preventing the entry of undocumented migrants, said Esscom commander Deputy Comm Datuk Victor Sanjos.

“The operation was also to enforce the law and detect any offences, particularly at the entry point for foreigners as well as locals residing near the border between Malaysia and Indonesia,” he said in a statement on Monday (May 6).

DCP Victor said they inspected 400 vehicles and screened 832 people during the operation.

From that number, he said 26 people were arrested for immigration offences under Section 6(1)(c) of the Immigration Act 1959/63.

“Besides that, Tawau police also seized 5.22g of drugs and hauled in 10 people for drug-related offences under Section 12(2) of the Dangerous Drugs Act.

“The Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry also detained an individual and seized 1,750 litres of diesel as well as a four-wheel drive vehicle,” said DCP Victor.

He said the Road Transport Department (JPJ) issued 17 summonses and eight notices for various traffic offences.

The operation was a continuation of efforts by Esscom and other agencies to curb the threat of foreign intrusion and defend public safety in the Eastern Sabah Security Zone (Esszone).

“We will intensify efforts in districts under the Esszone in order to thwart any cross-border crimes that could undermine peace on the East coast,” said DCP Victor.

He urged the public to report any security issues to the Esscom operations centre at 089-863 181 or through the WhatsApp number 011-63311072.