Five pump boats seized, four nabbed in ops against illegals off Tawau

KOTA KINABALU: In a latest crackdown against the entry of illegal immigrants and potential cross-border crimes in Sabah’s east coast Tawau district, security forces have seized five pump boats. This operation, dubbed “Ops Gasak”, involved a total of 96 officers and personnel from various state and federal agencies who scoured the seas from Mile 3 to Mile 5 off the district on Tuesday (July 11).

The primary objective of the operation, according to Eastern Sabah Security Command (Esscom) Commander Deputy Comm Victor Sanjos, was to curb the misuse of pump boats for criminal activities, such as kidnapping, sea robbery, smuggling, and fish bombing within the Eastern Sabah Security Zone (Esszone).

During the operation, 13 pump boats were inspected and 26 individuals were screened. As a result, five pump boats were confiscated and handed over to the Sabah Ports and Harbour Department, while four undocumented persons were detained and handed over to the Immigration Department.

DCP Sanjos emphasized the seriousness of security forces in curbing the abuse of pump boats for cross-border crimes. “We are committed to holding Ops Gasak, which aims to carry out large-scale operations to seize unlicensed pump boats. This operation plays a crucial role in preventing crimes like smuggling and the movement of illegal immigrants,” he stated.

Expressing appreciation to all the departments and agencies involved, DCP Sanjos advised pump boat owners to obtain the necessary licenses to avoid legal action. He also urged residents of the Esszone to report suspicious activities involving pump boats or any other crimes to Esscom’s operations center at 089-863181 or via WhatsApp to the number 011-6331 1072.