ESSZone curfew extended

KOTA KINABALU: The duskto-dawn curfew in the waters off seven districts in the Eastern Sabah Security Zone (ESSZone), which ended yesterday, has been extended to Aug 10, said Sabah Police Commissioner Datuk Ramli Din.

He said the curfew was enforced in the waters off Tawau, Semporna, Kunak, Lahad Datu, Kinabatangan, Sandakan and Beluran.

With the extension beginning today, all residents in the affected areas have been urged to remain indoors between 6 pm and 6 am, he said in a statement here yesterday.

"The curfew has been extended to ensure that the waters are not invaded by terrorists, which could threaten the security of international researchers conducting research, as well as tourists on the resort islands," he said.

Based on investigations, he said, the Abu Sayyaf militant group and those who conduct kidnapping for ransom from the southern Philippines were still active in the region.

Ramli said the curfew was also continued to ensure the safety and well-being of Sabahans who went out to sea, and those living in the ESSZone areas.

The curfew also facilitates enforcement and monitoring of boat movements, and the presence of security vessels creates a sense of security for chalet operators and fishermen around the area, he said.

"I have also authorised all district police chiefs to issue permits to any eligible applicant for fishing activities, or in cases of emergencies," he said.