LAHAD DATU: Security at Eastern Sabah Safety Zone (Esszone) has been intensified following information of possible kidnapping plans by the Abu Sayyaf group.
Eastern Sabah Security Command (Esscom) Commander Datuk Hazani Ghazali said assets have been deployed at the front control posts to boost maritime security.
He also reminded residents in Esszone to channel information should they notice suspicious activities or movement at sea.
This was in reference to yesterday’s Marine Link portal report, which stated that the Information Sharing Centre of Regional Cooperation Agreement on Combating Piracy and Armed Robbery against Ships in Asia (ReCAAP) had received information from the Philippines security forces on kidnapping activities.
Based on the information, it is estimated that 10 Abu Sayyaf group members were planning to carry out kidnap at several locations in Sabah.
Hazani said Esscom had also received similar information from their counterpart in the Philippines.
“Esscom is on high alert and we are taking the necessary measures to enhance our readiness and patrol at Esszone waters.
“I urge the community to act swiftly by reporting any suspicious movement to Esscom so immediate action can be taken,” he said in a statement today, adding that the current maritime security was under control.
According to the portal report, the kidnap group is targeting businessmen or foreign vessel crew.
The report also urged vessel crew members and owners to take extra precaution when plying the Sabah eastern and Philippines Sulu sea.