LAHAD DATU: Deputy Minister of Science and Innovation Malaysia, Datuk Mohammad Yusof Apdal, has asserted that the Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCOM) and the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) are intensifying security measures in the waters of Kunak.
Security control, particularly in the maritime areas, will be closely monitored as the Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebration approaches, he said.
As such, he said the public in the Lahad Datu Parliamentary constituency, specifically in the Kunak district, is urged to stay calm and not panic, as security forces are vigilant, especially during this festive period.
He said law enforcement will bolster security in the region and its waters to ensure safety is upheld even after the Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebration.
Yusof, who is Lahad Datu’s Member of Parliament, highlighted the importance of public confidence in the security forces to safeguard the waters of Lahad Datu and Kunak from potential threats.
“The continuous security surveillance serves as a strong signal that security forces are prepared to combat transnational crimes, even during festive seasons,” he said in a statement today.
He advised the public to trust the security personnel and not to worry, encouraging cooperation by providing any relevant information to the police for immediate action.
The news reported that two members of the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (Maritime Malaysia) were injured by gunfire while conducting patrols under Op Khas Pagar Laut in the waters of Kunak at 8.30 a.m. earlier.
The Director of Maritime Sabah and Federal Territory of Labuan, First Admiral (M) Datuk Che Engku Suhaimi Che Engku Daik, stated that during the incident, Maritime Malaysia members spotted a suspicious boat in the waters before attempting to approach the said boat.
“However, as the members approached the blue boat, three suspects believed to be on board the boat fired shots at the Maritime Malaysia members before speeding towards the country’s waters,” he said in a media statement.
