KOTA KINABALU: The Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCOM) has executed a significant two-day operation aimed at addressing illegal resorts and businesses that threaten the tourism industry in Semporna.
The operation, which took place from March 10 to 11, involved various federal and state enforcement agencies targeting resorts and tourism operators suspected of operating without valid licenses.
Esscom commander Deputy Comm Datuk Victor B Sanjos reported that 20 nationals from the Philippines and China were apprehended for multiple immigration violations, including overstaying and not presenting valid travel documents.
He noted that numerous compound notices were issued under different laws, covering issues from labor infractions and unlicensed business activities to fire safety violations and illegal wildlife possession.
“Customs officials also confiscated contraband liquor valued at RM20,153.76, while the Sabah Wildlife Department seized three bags of turtle meat and 111 bags of wild boar meat,” he said in a statement on Thursday
The total worth of the seizures amounted to RM491,413.76, he added, mentioning that the operation involved 231 personnel and inspections of 41 resorts and business locations throughout Semporna town, its coastal waters, and squatter areas.
The Labour Department issued 41 compound notices under the Employment Act 1955 to employers for non-compliance with employment and worker welfare regulations, while the Companies Commission of Malaysia issued eight compound notices under the Companies Act 2016 and one compliance notice.
HBO and Cinemax channels are now exclusively available on Unifi TV.
