SEMPORNA: A total of 20 illegal immigrants, including Filipino and Chinese nationals, were detained during an integrated operation coordinated by the Eastern Sabah Security Command (Esscom) on Tuesday and Wednesday.
Esscom Commander DCP Datuk Victor Sanjos said the operation, conducted following complaints about foreigners allegedly operating tourism-related businesses without licences, also resulted in seizures worth RM491,413.76.
He said 231 officers and personnel from the police, armed forces, Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency and other federal agencies inspected 41 resorts and business premises in the district.
A total of 48 individuals were screened during the operation and 20 were detained for failing to produce valid travel documents or overstaying, before being handed over to the Immigration Department for action under the Immigration Act.
Victor said several agencies also issued compounds and notices for various offences, while the Royal Malaysian Customs Department seized alcohol worth RM20,153.76 and the Sabah Wildlife Department confiscated turtle meat and wild boar valued at RM3,260.
