LAHAD DATU, March 18 – The implementation of the Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCOM), covering a coastline of 1,400 kilometres from Kudat to Tawau, has begun in Felda Sahabat with works to upgrade the existing logistics structure and to increase the number of security personnel and assets.
Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Ismail Omar(Pic) said the maritime assets of the Armed Forces (ATM), Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) and the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) would be harnessed together to ensure Sabah waters were free from any possible threats.
He said the police would also carry out immediate upgrading works at the Cenderawasih police station, while increasing the number of police personnel and creating new control posts at strategic areas around Felda Sahabat.
“We will also increase the number of new patrol cars in Felda Sahabat and acquire the more suitable multi-purpose vehicles to help us move in areas such as swamps, farms, forests and mangrove swamps” he said. Speaking at a joint press conference with Army Field Commander Lt Gen Datuk Seri Zulkiple Kasssim in Felda Sahabat 16 operation headquarters near here, Ismail said all preparations for the ESSCOM would be completed in the next few months.
The setting up of the ESSCOM was announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak on March 7 with the aim to protect the sovereignty and security of the east coast and north of Sabah. The ESSCOM areas include Kudat, Tawau, Kunak, Sandakan and Lahad Datu. Lahad Datu will also become the centre of command for ESSCOM. Meanwhile, Zulkiple said all maritime and land assets would be coordinated to ensure that the objectives of ESSCOM would be achieved.
“This adjustment includes the three ATM branches, namely army, navy and air force, as well as the MMEA, which we will include in the implementation of ESSCOM,” he said.
When asked about claims on the 28 bodies of terrorists, Ismail said Malaysia was still waiting for answers from the Philippines on the matter. Ismail also thanked the National Hero Supporters Club and the contribution of RM15,000 made to the Lahad Datu Heroes Fund by Sabah 1Malaysia Community and organised by the Ministry of Information Communications and Culture.
“We greatly appreciate the contribution and support. The spirit of the national security personnel is very high right now, thanks to the support from the Malaysian people,” he added.
BERNAMA
