By WU VUIDE
KOTA BELUD: The Sabah Lands and Surveys Department carried out an enforcement operation against illegal sand excavation and extraction activities at Kampung Pintasan on 5 March.
The newly-appointed director, Alan Chua Ming Ling said the operation was conducted following about a week of intelligence gathering and surveillance by the department’s enforcement team after receiving information on suspected illegal sand extraction activities in the area.
According to him, the enforcement team launched a raid at about 9.45 am on March 5 at the identified location.
“As a result of the raid, the department seized one CAT excavator and a 13-ton Nissan lorry, which was found loading sand.
“However, no arrests were made as the individuals present at the scene managed to flee upon noticing the presence of the enforcement team,” he said in a statement.
He added that a police report has been lodged regarding the operation and an investigation paper will be opened by the enforcement division’s investigation unit to facilitate further investigation.
“Further action will be taken in accordance with the provisions under the Sabah Land Ordinance (Cap. 68),” he said.
He also highlighted that the success of the operation was the result of close cooperation between the department’s enforcement team, the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), community leader of Kota Belud, and information provided by concerned members of the public.
The department stressed that monitoring and enforcement operations will continue to be intensified to curb illegal extraction of land, sand, and stone throughout the state.
Monitoring activities are carried out not only on working days but also during weekends and public holidays.
The department will not hesitate to take firm action against any individual or operator found violating the law under the Sabah Land Ordinance.
Illegal sand operator caught red-handed.
