ESSCOM TO INCLUDE IMMIGRATION, CUSTOM DEPTS IN SPECIAL FORCES DRILLS

LAHAD DATU, June 29 (Bernama) -- The Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCOM) aims to expand joint special forces drills to include the Malaysian Immigration Department and the Royal Malaysian Customs Department, enhancing security in the Eastern Sabah Security Zone (ESSZONE).

Its commander Datuk Victor Sanjos said current drills involve special forces from the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF), and the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA), coordinating inter-agency efforts within the ESSZONE

He said these exercises are crucial for ensuring that operations and security controls in the ESSZONE are executed efficiently and effectively.

“These special drills provide essential experience and readiness for executing operations, showcasing the combination of intelligence teams and elite forces," he told a press conference on the ESSCOM special forces' in-service training here today.

Victor added that the drills are vital for countering kidnapping for ransom (KFR) threats, which remain prevalent in neighbouring countries and are closely monitored by ESSCOM.

A total of 84 officers and personnel participated in the drills held in Kinabatangan and Lahad Datu from July 26 to July 1.

The exercises, based on real-world special operations scenarios, were conducted in the squatter colonies around Lahad Datu, integrating the expertise and synergy of each elite agency involved.

Participating PDRM units included the 69 Commando, Special Action Unit (UTK), Tiger Platoon of the General Operations Force (PGA), Marine Combat Unit (UNGERIN) of the Region 4 Marine Police, and the Lahad Datu District Police Headquarters.

The MAF’s Naval Special Warfare Force (PASKAL) of the Royal Malaysian Navy and MMEA’s Special Task and Rescue (STAR) team also took part.

-- BERNAMA