THE Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) officer injured in the left eye in a shootout with criminals in Kunak waters yesterday morning has permanently lost sight in that eye.
Lahad Datu District Hospital confirmed that 45-year-old Petty Officer Zainal Abad Komel will now have monocular vision.
MMEA director-general Datuk Hamid Mohd Amin said doctors could not save Zainal’s left eye due to nerve damage caused by the bullet.
“I visited him and the doctor confirmed that he will be blind. He lost one eye permanently, but thank God his other eye is just fine. His condition is now stable after surgery,” he told reporters in Lahad Datu today.
Another injured officer, Leading Rate Prayrie De Cuella Jimin, is also in a stable condition. Jimin was injured in both hands during the incident.
Hamid said the three suspects who opened fire at his men during their patrol were believed to be part of a smuggling gang operating across the border.
“They are believed to be active in the Subu Duyung and Batik Parang areas. We will join forces with the Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCom) and police to mobilise our assets.
“These assets are from the Royal Malaysian Navy and the Joint Task Force, involving two ships and 21 boats.
“Additionally, five patrol boats, 26 patrol and combat boats and together with MMEA four maritime vessels, and 15 patrol and assault boats are also being mobilised from Lahad Datu to Semporna, Kunak and Tawau under ESSCom,” he said.
Meanwhile, ESSCom commander Datuk Victor Sanjos said one of the suspects has been identified. Sanjos said he was a foreigner and listed as a wanted person.
“Eyewitnesses have confirmed one of the suspects, but I can’t reveal his identity as we are tracking them at present,” he said.
On Sunday, two MMEA officers were injured when they exchanged gunfire in waters off Kg Pangi Kunak around 8.30am. – The Vibes, April 8, 2024
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