KOTA KINABALU: The presence of Eastern Sabah Security Command (Esscom) has increased the confidence among locals and foreigners, its commander Datuk Victor Sanjos said.

To further boost public confidence, Esscom has implemented a 'Show of Presence' strategy and various community programmes, helping to elevate the local economy in sectors such as trade, agriculture, and tourism. 

 "Apart from being proof of our unwavering dedication to strengthening our security strategies in the Eastern Sabah Security Zone (ESS Zone). 

 "This also includes combating negative perceptions of the region's safety, which is key to restoring confidence among locals and tourists alike. 

 "We have seen a steady increase in confidence among both residents and foreign visitors, and this is reflected in the positive responses from embassies, maritime security agencies, and the general public," he said in a statement. 

Esscom was established on April 1, 2013 following the Lahad Datu standoff in February the same year, with the primary objective of enhancing security in the eastern coast of Sabah and protecting the area from threats such as terrorism, piracy, and kidnapping.

 Victor said that the waters off the east coast, often associated with security challenges such as sea robbery, piracy, and abductions by groups like the Abu Sayyaf Group and Kidnap for Ransom Group, have remained stable and safe. 

 "We have successfully maintained the stability and safety of this region, with no incursions by foreign elements for the past 11 years, and a zero-kidnapping record since Jan 15, 2020."

He added that Esscom's Operasi Sanggah has been instrumental in this success, with over 1.6 million inspections conducted on people, vehicles, and boats up to December 31, 2023. 

These operations resulted in the arrest of 508 individuals, the seizure of 175 vehicles and boats, and the deportation of 233 illegal immigrants, along with the confiscation of 96 vessels from the country's borders. 

The total value of last year's seizures amounted to RM17.8 million, with the highest value coming from the smuggling of cigarettes and controlled goods worth RM15 million. 

 "The remainder comprised drugs and goods owned by illegal immigrants, contributing to a total of RM3.3 million."

As of July 31 this year, more than 1.2 million inspections had been conducted, leading to the arrest of 390 people and the seizure of 146 vehicles and boats.

"For the first half of 2024 alone, we have seized goods worth RM13.3 million, with RM9 million attributed to smuggled cigarettes and controlled items, while drugs and goods owned by illegal contributed RM4.1 million to the total."

https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2024/09/1099649/esscom-boosts-confidence-show-presence-strategy