The Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCom) recorded 5,259 arrests on illegal immigrants in 651 special integrated operations carried out in the Eastern Sabah Security Zone (ESSZone) from January to December last year.

Its commander, Datuk Wan Abdul Bari Wan Abdul Khalid said throughout last year, 51,175 individuals were checked and 5,259 of them who did not have personal identification documents were detained.

"The operation codenamed 'Operasi Gasak', we also recorded the detention of 834 illegal immigrants out of 6,821 individuals who were checked ...in the operation we also impounded 48 pump boats and 55 boat engines that were suspected to be used for criminal activities," he told Bernama here.

Meanwhile, Abdul Bari said the security situation in the ESSZone was under control, however the waters off seven districts namely Kudat, Tawau, Sandakan, Kunak, Semporna, Lahad Datu and Beluran were still exposed to various threats including smuggling activities and intrusions by illegal immigrants.

"For preliminary measures to tackle these threats, we (the security forces) are always ready and alert for any information or news whether from the security authorities or members of the public.

"When we hear or receive any information, we take proactive action by monitoring, patrolling and cleaning the areas said to have possibilities of criminal activities occurring,"he said.

He said activities to prevent the criminal threats were not limited to activities on land but also covered the waters in the ESSZone by using marine assets.

Abdul Bari said that holistic measures were also taken by the security forces in the ESSZone by creating a security network together with the village security community including Felda and the District Office.

--BERNAMA