Esszone curfew extended again to July 25

Curfew in the waters off seven districts in the Eastern Sabah Security Zone (Esszone), which ends today, will be extended until July 25.

Sabah police commissioner Omar Mammah said in a statement today that the curfew from 6pm to 6am covers the waters off Tawau, Semporna, Kunak, Lahad Datu, Kinabatangan, Sandakan and Beluran.

He said people living in the area were required to stay indoors, while outsiders were not allowed to enter or be in the declared areas from 6 pm to 6 am on the dates specified.

“The curfew continues to ensure that the waters concerned are not invaded by terrorists who threaten the safety of international researchers and tourists visiting the resort islands.

“It is also to ensure the security and well-being of Sabahans using the waters and those in the Esszone land area,” he said.

Omar said the curfew would facilitate enforcement and monitoring of boat movements, as well as create a sense of security and confidence in chalet operators and fishermen with the presence of security forces.

Based on information, he added, Abu Sayyaf militant groups and those carrying out kidnap-for-ransom activities from southern Philippines were still active in conducting cross-border crimes.

“I also give all district police chiefs in the Esszone the authority to issue permits to eligible applicants for fishery activities or those with an urgent need to enter the curfew areas,” he said.

- Bernama