KUDAT: An operation dubbed “Ops Gasak Laut” will be launched by the Eastern Sabah Security Command (Esscom) on May 18 to demolish illegal structures off Pulau Bangkawan, here.
The unoccupied houses would be removed as they could be misused by cross-border criminals as staging points for kidnapping, robberies and smuggling in the waters of Eastern Sabah Security Zone (Esszone).
Esscom Commander DCP Hamzah Ahmad said aerial surveillance showed the number of illegal structures was increasing.
He said the operation was an initial step to address the construction of illegal structures in Esszone.
“Aerial surveillance and field inspections found many illegal huts in the area. This operation will demolish a number of unoccupied huts, apart from issuing eviction notices,” he said in a statement, Friday.
He added that the authorities will issue notices in accordance with provisions under Section 48(1)(j) of the Sabah Parks Enactment 1984 (amended 2007), Immigration Act 1959/1963 and other legislation during the operation.
Meanwhile, Hamzah said Esscom would, at any time, raid illegally constructed pondohan (small huts) and bagang (traditional fishing structures) along the Esszone waters.
“Any individual or group is reminded to immediately demolish the illegal huts or bagang before the authorities take further action,” he said.
He also urged members of the public who have any information on the construction of illegal structures at sea to lodge a report with the Esscom Operations Centre at 089-863181 or via WhatsApp at 011-63311072.
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