State Special Tasks Minister Teo Chee Kang said this was because the modus operandi of criminals has changed as they targeted waters beyond national borders.

“Many cross-border criminal activities such as the kidnap-for-ransom can be prevented due to strict enforcement by the security forces, especially ESSCom.

“It is found that criminals have now changed their modus operandi after failing to outsmart security forces that constantly patrolled the borders,” he said after handing over packages of ‘Raya goodies’ from the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) to police officers at the Sabah police contingent headquarters here today.

Teo who is also LDP president said the government was always looking for the best method to safeguard the security of national waters, including efforts taken by Defence Minister Hishammuddin Hussein to conduct sea joint patrols with the Philippines and Indonesia.

He also lauded efforts by Foreign Minister Anifah Aman in addressing the issues and threats from abroad.

Earlier, Sabah Police Commissioner DCP Abd Rashid Harun said the state police contingent would always do its best to maintain security in the state, including during the festive season.

Abd Rashid said about 90% of the police personnel, including himself, would be on duty during the Aidilfitri festive period to ensure the safety of all parties.

– BERNAMA