KOTA KINABALU: Five individuals were detained and 17 pump boats seized during the coordinated operations held in Semporna and Kunak on Wednesday (Oct 25), says the Eastern Sabah Security Command (Esscom).
Esscom commander Datuk Victor Sanjos said the Op Gasak Laut Pambot (OGL Pambot) held in Semporna and the integrated operation in Kunak were organised to curb crimes like misuse of pump boats, the entry of illegals, smuggling, robbery, fish bombing and drug abuse.
In a statement here, he said both operations saw 210 officers and personnel from enforcement agencies and local authorities being roped in.
"During the OGL Pambot in Semporna, 17 individuals and 18 pump boats were inspected along the coast where pump boats were used as entryways to the Semporna town.
"Three individuals were found to be illegal immigrants from the Philippines and have been handed over to the Immigration Department for further action.
"One pump boat owner was compounded while 17 pump boats have been confiscated and handed over to Sabah Ports and Harbours Department in Semporna to be disposed of," he said.
Meanwhile during the Kunak operation, 115 individuals were inspected at the areas identified as hotspots for cross border criminals to transit as well as illegal presence.
Out of the total figure, two individuals were detained by Kunak police narcotics crime investigation division for possessing 0.20 grammes of syabu, he added.
Sanjos said that such operations to seize and dispose unlicensed pump boats is aimed to cripple cross-border crime activities especially smuggling and illegals attempting to enter the country.
