KOTA KINABALU: Sabah’s dusk-to-dawn sea curfew will be extended for two weeks until March 11.

       Sabah Police Commissioner Datuk Idris Abdullah said those living in the areas concerned were not allowed to leave their homes during curfew hours, while outsiders were barred from entering.

       He said the extension of the 6pm-to-6am sea curfew was needed due to continuous threats from cross-border criminals, including kidnap-for-ransom groups.

       It covers areas up to three nautical miles off Tawau, Semporna, Kunak, Lahad Datu, Kinabatangan, Sandakan and Beluran.

       “There is a need to continue the curfew in these waters to prevent the encroachment of terrorists and criminals who can threaten the safety of locals, international researchers and tourists in the islands,” Idris said in a statement yesterday.

       According to intelligence sources, kidnap-for-ransom groups and the Abu Sayyaf were still trying to commit cross-border crime.

       The curfew allows authorities to ensure the safety of those who depend on the sea and live near the Eastern Sabah Security Zone.

       Idris added that the curfew was to facilitate enforcement and monitoring of boating activity in the area and to create a sense of security for chalet owners and fishermen.

       “I have also given the authority to all district police chiefs to issue permits to any eligible applicant who fits the criteria to conduct fishing in the areas affected by the curfew,” he said.