Security forces in the Eastern Sabah Security Zone (Esszone) have mobilised all their assets following warnings of piracy and kidnap threats from the Philippines, he said.

Speaking to reporters after a police event here today, Azis said security forces have been conducting patrols round the clock to ensure the threat does not become a reality.

“We will do all we can to ensure our waters are safe from cross-border criminals.

“We take every warning and threat seriously,” he said.

An article on an online maritime news website “Marine Link” had claimed last week that a group of armed terrorists from the Abu Sayyaf group may be on the prowl in Sabah’s waters.

Citing the Philippine Coast Guard, the article stated that the ReCAAP ISC (Regional Cooperation Agreement on Combating Piracy and Armed Robbery Information Sharing Centre) had received information that a group of 10 Abu Sayyaf members, armed with pistols, rifles and grenade launchers, was planning kidnapping activities in Sabah.

The article added that the group was using unmarked blue-and-white coloured “jungkong”, which are speedboats designed for shallow waters.

Commenting on the Budget 2019, tabled yesterday, Azis hoped to get more details on the budget allocation to improve security in Sabah.

“We understand there are limitations due to the current economic situation.

“Security is among the top three priorities for the allocations in Budget 2019. We hope there will be something extra for Sabah, apart from the RM5 billion announced.”