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SEMPORNA: The Marine Police Force (MPF) detained a boat suspected of carrying illegal immigrants from the Philippines off Kampung Singamata, Pulau Bum Bum waters, on Thursday.

A MPF team on “Op Taring Gelora Khas” duty spotted a suspicious speedboat in the area at about 9.30pm and intercepted it. 

“An inspection on the boat showed it was operated by a 24-year-old man who was carrying five women and two children.

“The boat skipper and his passengers later admitted they entered the State via Semporna waters from Sitangkai, Philippines by paying 2,000 pesos for each passenger,” he said, adding the suspects and seizures were taken to Semporna MPF for further action.

Sabah Region Four MPF Commander ACP Ahmad Ariffin the seizure, including the speedboat and engine and gallons, was estimated to be worth RM33,060.

The case is being investigated under the Anti-Trafficking in Persons and Anti-Smuggling of Migrants Act (Atipsom) 2007.