LAHAD DATU, April 1- Kampung Tanduo, the scene of violent clashes between security forces and Sulu terrorists, is a sleepy hollow inhabited by 12 families, mostly fishermen and plantation workers. Covered by secondary jungle and separated by a stream from Sungai Nyamuk, is located in a swampy area overlooking the sea.
The arrival of some 200 terrorists dressed in military fatigue and equipped with firearms on February 12 brought much sorrow to the simple residents. Overnight, peaceful Kampung Tanduo was transformed into a war zone when the
terrorists from southern Philippines set up camp in the village.
Refusal by the terrorists to leave the area resulted in a standoff with security forces who were involved in lengthy negotiation to avoid bloodshed. When negotiations failed, security forces launched an offensive called Operation Daulat with air strikes on the terrorists at about 7am on March 5.
Air strikes by three F/A 18D Hornet fighter jets and Hawk jet fighters were followed by 91mm mortar attacks before a hunt for the terrorists was launched. Following search and moppping up, Kampung Tanduo was declared free of threats on March 11, much to the relief of the residents.
However, their return home after 43 days proved heartbreaking as many houses and belongings were destroyed in the gun battle. Almost all the houses are scarred by gunshots with some with only pillars standing, something which we usually see in wars abroad via television.
“I don’t want to live here anymore,” said Atareh Sabtal, 39, disappointed with the destruction. Asaad Majijil 70, said because of the terrorist intrusion, his family lost personal documents after the 50 year-old house was totally destroyed.
“I feel very sad to see what is left of the house. Its terrible, horrible and frightening,” he said amidst tears.
The destruction forced Sabah Police Commissioner Datuk Hamza Taib to announce that Kampung Tanduo was closed and the residents will be relocated to a new area. Lahad Datu District Officer Zulkifli Nasir said the decision allows authorities to gather the residents who lived scattered allover in a 120 hectares site.
Tungku State Assemblyman Datuk Mohd Suhaili Said said the residents will be placed in Masej Nala public housing project, about 60 km away before the new settlement is ready for occupation. Meanwhile, an army commando involved in Operation Daulat said Kampung Tanduo’s remote location makes it susceptible to terrorist threats, especially from the sea.
“Its location close to the sea, not far from neighbouring countries and coupled with the jungle and marshes make it difficult for security forces to reach should any bad incident happen,” he added.
BERNAMA
