SEMPORNA: A total of 20 illegal immigrants comprising Philippines and China nationals were detained during an integrated operation coordinated by Esscom, here, on Tuesday and Wednesday.
Esscom Commander DCP Datuk Victor Sanjos said the operation, which followed public complaints on foreign nationals allegedly operating tourism-related businesses without a valid licence, also resulted in seizures worth RM491,413.76.
He said 41 resorts and business premises were inspected during the operation involving 231 officers and members from the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM), Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM), Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) and federal departments and agencies.
“A total of 48 individuals were inspected and 20 of them were detained for failing to produce valid travel documents or overstaying.
“They were handed over to the Immigration Department for further action under Section 15(1)(c) and Section 6(1)(c) of the Immigration Act 1963,” he said, in a statement, Thursday.
According to Victor, the Jabatan Tenaga Kerja (JTK) issued 41 compounds for various offences under the Employment Act 1955, while the Malaysian Companies Commission (SSM) issued eight compounds and one compliance notice under the Companies Act 2016.
He said the Jabatan Perlindungan Data Peribadi (JPDP) issued two compounds linked to the data handling requirements.
“Semporna District Council issued 19 compounds for various offences, including operating without a licence and failing to comply with licence conditions. The Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living also issued seven compounds.
“The Fire and Rescue Department issued 30 notices related to the absence of essential fire safety equipment,” he said, adding that the Health Ministry also issued a compound for food hygiene involving the handling and display of food.
Victor said the Royal Malaysian Customs Department seized alcohol worth RM20,153.76, including duties, while the Sabah Wildlife Department seized three plastics containing turtle meats and three plastics containing wild boar worth RM3,260.
He expressed appreciation to all agencies involved and noted that the joint effort reflected ongoing cooperation to ensure compliance with regulations and maintain public order.
Members of the public also encouraged to convey any information related to security in Esszone to the Esscom Operation Centre at 089-863181 or WhatsApp at 011-63311072.
