Describing the recent statement by the so-called Sultanate of Sulu in Philippine newspapers as mere propaganda, he said since the intrusion of Sulu terrorists into Tanduo, Lahad Datu in February, there had not been any recent clash between Malaysian security forces and the terrorists.
"How can they make that claim when there is no war?
That claim is baseless," he said when contacted Monday.
Mohammad was asked to comment on recent reports by several Philippine newspapers that Sulu gunmen had killed eight Malaysian soldiers.
He reiterated the report was intended to reflect the situation in the State as unstable, apart from an attempt to stir unrest.
The so-called Sultanate of Sulu was quoted as claiming recently that its forces, led by a veteran guerrilla from Tawi-Tawi, killed at least eight Malaysian soldiers in a shootout in Lahad Datu, Sabah.
On June 19, Mohammad had also dismissed a report in a local Philippine newspaper report of a skirmish between Malaysian security forces and about 400 armed Sulu terrorists at Kampung Dengan Tungku near Lahad Datu.
Meanwhile, Esscom on Monday announced the opening of a 24-hour operations room to enhance security in the State's east coast.
Mohammad said the operations room was based in Lahad Datu and the public can contact it by telephone (089-863181) or fax (089-863182) to make enquiries, lodge complaints or provide information.
"This is part of our strategy to step up preparedness to face any eventuality related to defence and security in Esscom," he said.
Mohammad advised the public, including village chiefs and chairmen of village development and security committees, to alert the operations room immediately upon sighting the presence of suspicious immigrants in their villages.
"This initial information is important for the defence and security forces' personnel to take the appropriate action for the good of all," he said.
Mohammad advised the public against abusing the operations room hotline by providing false information or making prank calls, warning that stern action in accordance with the law would be taken against offenders.
He said every piece of information or complaint received would be investigated and scrutinised for follow-up action.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak announced the establishment of Esscom on March 7 when he arrived in Lahad Datu for a first-hand look at the 'Op Daulat' government offensive against Sulu terrorists who had intruded the district in February.
Esscom is the authoritative body that oversees the Eastern Sabah Security Zone (Esszone) which covers 10 districts along a stretch of 1,400kilometres on the Sabah east coast.
Esszone, which encompasses the districts of Kudat, Kota Marudu, Pitas, Beluran, Sandakan, Kinabatangan, Lahad Datu, Kunak, Semporna and Tawau, was established to maintain the sovereignty and security of the Sabah east coast following the terrorist intrusion.
Esszone also helps to enhance all operations undertaken by various entities, including the Malaysian Armed Forces, Royal Malaysia Police, Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency and the Immigration Department.
Related - Sulu sultan claims followers killed 8 Malaysian troops
NO WAR?
ReplyDeleteISN'T SABAH IN A STATE OF EMERGENCY?
WHAT IS ESSCOM THEN?