THE curfew in waters off seven districts under the Eastern Sabah Security Zone (Esszone), which ends tomorrow, has been extended to September 11, said Sabah Police Commissioner Ramli Din.

He said the curfew covered the waters off Tawau, Semporna, Kunak, Lahad Datu, Kinabatangan, Sandakan and Beluran, where residents were required to refrain from entering the waters between 6pm and 6am.

Outsiders were not allowed to enter or remain in the areas within the curfew period, he said in a statement today.

Ramli said the curfew was extended to prevent the intrusion of terrorists who threatened the security of international researchers and tourists visiting the resort islands in the affected areas.

He said based on investigations, Abu Sayyaf and other militant groups in southern Philippines were still attempting cross-border crimes, including abductions.

He said the curfew also facilitated enforcement and the monitoring of boat movements to ensure the safety of chalet operators and fishermen. – Bernama, August 26, 2017.