He said those involved comprised professionals, youths and teenagers. “The group have their own village in Tuaran, Sandakan, Tawau and some of them are in the area of Kota Kinabalu,” he said.

Sabah police would work with the Federal Territory Islamic Religious Department, JAWI, which initiated the investigations, and will take comprehensive steps against the group for carrying out practices or activities which were against Islam.

“The group originated from Peninsular Malaysia but some Sabahans are involved,” he told reporters.

Asked about the land in Tuaran which had allegedly been bought by the group, Awang said this was still being investigated.

Awang said the police were still investigating a report that the Sulu separatist movement had a warrior in every Sabah state assembly area. “Police will continue to preserve the prosperity, security and sovereignty of Sabah,” he said.

– BERNAMA