SEMPORNA: Thirty-four men travelling in seven boats have been detained by the Armed Forces' Joint Task Force 2 (ATB 2) last night while trying to enter the country illegally.
The boats were intercepted north of Pulau Danawan waters at 8.39pm.
ATB 2 commander Brigadier General Zarondin Md Amin said the men, believed to be from the southern Philippines, did not carry valid identification papers.
“The group had also violated the curfew order under Eastern Sabah Safety Zone (Esszone) and failed to produce valid travel documents.” Zarondin added.
Zarondin said the illegal immigrants, aged 20 to 50 years old, and their seized boats were handed over to Esscom at 4.40am today for further action.
“ATB 2 will continue to work closely with Esscom to monitor and curb criminal activities in Sabah’s east coast waters in order to ensure the social and economic stability of the locals.” Zarondin said.
