Kota Kinabalu: Kota Kinabalu City Hall (DBKK) demolished 13 illegal squatter houses behind Alamesra, Likas, on June 19, bringing the total number of structures torn down in the area to 38.
The DBKK said the integrated operation, from 8am to 5pm, was carried out to address land encroachment, illegal construction and uncontrolled squatter growth on government land.
“This action is not merely a demolition operation but a strategic measure to ensure government land is not continuously encroached upon, to preserve environmental reserve areas and to reduce the risk of fire and crime,” DBKK was quoted by Info X.
“There will be no compromise for any party that builds, occupies or shelters illegal structures on government land, and enforcement action will continue to be intensified from time to time.”
DBKK identified the squatter colony behind Alamesra as one of the encroachment sites that had grown unchecked on mangrove forest reserve land and riverbank areas.
A census found 101 houses built in the fire victim resettlement area at Kampung Cenderamata 2, Likas, while 150 squatter structures were identified in the mangrove area behind Alamesra, the majority occupied by non-citizens.
DBKK said the conditions posed risks to public safety, public health, the environment and the mangrove ecosystem, which it described as an important natural asset for the city.
Notices of vacation, relocation and demolition were served on affected occupants on April 13, with a 14-day compliance period before enforcement action was taken.
The operation was conducted with the cooperation of the Royal Malaysia Police, Sabah Electricity Sdn Bhd and the Land and Survey Department.
DBKK said 112 more squatter structures had been identified for subsequent enforcement action.
