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LAHAD DATU: The curfew in the waters off seven districts in the Eastern Sabah Security Zone (Esszone), which is scheduled to end today (Saturday), has been extended until Feb 14. Sabah Police Commissioner Datuk Hazani Ghazali said the curfew covers the waters off Tawau, Semporna, Kunak, Lahad Datu, Kinabatangan, Sandakan and Beluran.

He said those living in the areas are prohibited from approaching or being in the waters off the seven districts between 6pm and 6am. “The curfew has been extended to ensure the affected areas would not be encroached by terrorists, who could threaten security, and also to protect the safety and wellbeing of Sabahans in the Esszone.

“Information gathered has revealed that militant groups involved in kidnapping for ransom and the  Abu Sayyaf group are still trying to infiltrate these waters to carry out kidnapping and cross-border crimes,” he said in a statement, Friday.

Hazani said the curfew order was also to facilitate enforcement and monitoring of boat movements, while the presence of security vessels would create a sense of security for chalet operators and fishermen in the area.