KOTA KINABALU: Sabah security forces are working with the Philippine authorities following the arrest of 11 people - eight China nationals and three Malaysians - for illegal entry into the state’s waters.

Sabah Police Commissioner Datuk Jauteh Dikun said they are monitoring this case and getting updates on the investigations from the Philippines.

He said their next course of action would among other things include investigating the tour company involved in crossing the borders illegally.

“For now, we wait for the investigation updates from our neighbouring counterparts, and will give our fullest cooperation when needed,” Jauteh said when contacted.

Eastern Sabah Security Command (Esscom) commander Datuk Victor Sanjos said they are ready to assist Sabah police in the follow up actions including raids, upon request.

In the Sept 1 arrest, 11 individuals, comprising nine men and two women, who were on holiday in Semporna, were reportedly fishing on two motorised speedboats in Malaysian waters when they allegedly crossed international waters.

They were apprehended near Tugayo Hunasan, Sitangkai, Tawi-Tawi in the southern Philippines.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/09/03/sabah-security-forces-working-with-philippine-counterpart-over-trespassing-incident-says-state-top-cop