The curfew in waters off seven districts in the Eastern Sabah Security Zone (ESSZone) that was scheduled to end tomorrow will be extended until Feb 5, Sabah police commissioner Omar Mammah said.

In a statement today, Omar said the curfew from 6pm to 6am covered the waters off Tawau, Semporna, Kunak, Lahad Datu, Kinabatangan, Sandakan and Beluran.

He said during the curfew, people living in the area were required to stay indoors while outsiders would not be allowed to be in the waters there.

“The curfew is extended to ensure the waters would not be invaded by terrorists who could threaten the security of researchers as well as tourists at the resort islands.

“This curfew is also to ensure the safety and well-being of Sabahans living in the ESSZone,” he said.

Omar said the curfew would facilitate the enforcement and monitoring of boat movements, while the presence of security vessels would provide a sense of security for chalet operators and fishermen in the area.

“All district police chiefs in the ESSZone are authorised to issue permits to eligible applicants for the purpose of fishing activities or to attend to urgent matters during the curfew,” he said.

- Bernama