Curfew in the waters off seven districts in the Eastern Sabah Security Zone (Esszone) which ends tomorrow, has been extended until July 10.

Sabah police commissioner Omar Mammah in a statement today said the curfew from 6pm to 6am covers the waters off Tawau, Semporna, Kunak, Lahad Datu, Kinabatangan, Sandakan and Beluran.

With the curfew in effect, those living in the areas are required to stay indoors while outsiders are not allowed to enter or be in the declared areas from 6pm to 6am on the dates specified.

“The curfew continues to ensure that the waters concerned would not be intruded by terrorists who could threaten the security of international researchers and tourists visiting the resort islands.

“The move also ensures the security and well-being of Sabahans using the waters and those in the Esszone land area,” he said.

Omar said the curfew would facilitate enforcement and monitoring of boat movements as well as give a sense of security and confidence to chalet operators and fishermen with the presence of security forces.

He said based on information, the Abu Sayyaf militant group and those carrying out kidnap-for-ransom activities from the southern Philippines were still active.

All the district police chiefs in the Esszone have been authorised to issue permits to eligible applicants for the purpose of fishing and those with an urgent need to enter the curfew areas.

- Bernama