By JAMES LEONG
TAWAU: A total of 40 individuals, including illegal immigrants and narcotics suspects, were detained during the ESSCOM coordinated operation in Tawau and Kalabakan from July 24 to 26.
The operation involved collaboration between ESSCOM and the Royal Malaysia Police, Malaysian Armed Forces, Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency and other federal/state agencies.
The operation targeted urban and suburban areas, including Kalabakan’s old Customs, Immigration, and Quarantine (CIQ) Complex, road checkpoints, and suspected infiltration routes near the land and maritime borders of Tawau and Kalabakan.
Authorities conducted 146 personal inspections, 26 premises/business checks, and three vehicle inspections.
Of those detained, 21 Filipino and Indonesian illegal immigrants were handed over to the Immigration Department for further action.
The Tawau District Narcotics Criminal Investigation Division arrested 19 individuals, including two suspected drug traffickers, under the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 and Poisons Act 1952.
Seized items included 125.64 grams of methamphetamine (syabu), 41 bottles of ketum liquid (1.5L each) and RM950 in cash.
Sabah Electricity also cut off illegal power connections, preventing an estimated RM750,000 in losses under the Electricity Supply Enactment 2024.
The district police Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Division, and Road Transport Department issued 35 traffic summonses and two vehicle inspection notices for various traffic offences.
ESSCOM commander Datuk Victor B. Sanjos disclosed the objective of the operation was to enhance security in the Eastern Sabah Safety Zone (ESS Zone), combat smuggling, prevent illegal entry, and maintain public order.
This operation is part of ongoing efforts under “Op SANGGAH ESSCOM”, reinforcing security measures under the “No Day Without Operations” initiative to safeguard Sabah’s borders and socio-economic stability in line with the Malaysia MADANI vision, Victor said.
He thanked the 254 officers and personnel from various law enforcement agencies and local authorities for their cooperation.
The public are urged to report security concerns to the ESSCOM Operations Centre at 089-863181 or via WhatsApp (011-63311072), Victor added.
