KUALA LUMPUR:The use of drones since the ‘Op Benteng’ operation was activated in June has allowed the authorities to successfully detect 55 cases of intrusions into the country’s borders, says Senior Minister (Security Cluster) Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.

He said the detection which also led to several arrests proved the effectiveness of the technology.

"The use of drone technology is very important because the country needs to maintain vast borders, for example in Sabah waters.

"That is why we use drone technology at the border areas, including on land," he said during his daily press conference at Wisma Pertahanan, here.

Meanwhile, Ismail Sabri said the government had acquired several assets including scrambler motorcycles, ATVs (all-terrain vehicles), radars and drones for use during Op Benteng, especially in the northern part of the Peninsula.

He said the procurement was made through special provisions under the National Security Council to strengthen national border control.

"The government will continue to enhance its assets to control the country's borders under Op Benteng," he said.

-- BERNAMA