KOTA KINABALU: A two-day operation in the east coast district of Lahad Datu was launched recently with a focus on areas where illegal immigrants reportedly gather frequently.
The blitz on Wednesday and Thursday by the Eastern Sabah Security Command (Esscom) was aimed at ensuring the community is protected from criminal elements as well as ensuring immigrants abide by the laws of the country.
Esscom commander Deputy Commissioner Victor Sanjos stressed this is being done through the "No Day Without Operation" commitment within the Eastern Sabah Safety Zone (Esszone).
The operation dubbed "Operasi Bersepadu" saw the Esscom-led team checking on business premises, makeshift stalls, the edge of the town area and locations known to be the haunts for illegal immigrants, Victor said.
"We aim to curb smuggling of controlled goods, indiscriminate trade of subsidised items and untaxed merchandise as well as stifle the influx of illegal immigrants," he said, adding that the authorities also keep other offences in check.
"The team checked 870 individuals, 70 vehicles and 315 premises during the two-day operation. Four illegal immigrants were detected and handed over to the Immigration department," Victor revealed.
He noted that two vehicles were also seized, four compounded for having no valid trading permit, along with five summonses for various traffic offences.
During the operation, Esscom coordinated a joint team of 90 officers made up of police, soldiers, members of the local authorities as well as other government enforcement agencies such as the Immigration Department, Health Department, Domestic Trade Enforcement and Rela volunteers.