SIX individuals, aged between 40 and 47 years old, were arrested and more than RM1.4 million in cash was seized during a cross-border crime operation in Tawau in a multi-agency raid led by Eastern Sabah Security Command (Esscom).
Other agencies involved in the operation include the Inland Revenue Board and Bukit Aman police.
According to Esscom commander Datuk Victor B. Sanjos, nine premises were targeted in the crackdown to curb cross-border criminal activities within the Eastern Sabah Security Zone located in the east coast areas of Sabah.
“All the individuals were detained under the Income Tax Act 1967 and the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act 2001. Equipment such as mobile phones, documents, and related files was also seized during the operation,” Sanjos said in a statement today.
A total of 84 personnel from Esscom, LHDN, and the police were involved in the raid on October 11.
“The main objective of the operation is to ensure safety and public order in the ESS Zone while addressing smuggling activities comprehensively,” Sanjos added, emphasising Esscom’s commitment to supporting national development and enhancing the socio-economic well-being of communities in the region.
Sanjos also noted the importance of continued public cooperation in reporting any security incidents within the ESS Zone to the Esscom Operations Center via their hotline or WhatsApp.
“We will continue to intensify integrated operations like this in other districts to curb cross-border criminal activities that threaten public safety and order,” he said.
The public is urged to contact the Esscom Operations Center at 089-863181 or via WhatsApp at 011-63311072 to report any security-related issues in the ESS Zone. - October 12, 2024
