KOTA KINABALU: The dusk-to-dawn sea curfew in the state has been extended to April 25.

       The extension of the 6pm to 6am sea curfew was needed in view of the continuous threats from cross-border criminals, including kidnap-for-ransom groups, said Sabah Police Commissioner Datuk Idris Abdullah.

       The curfew covered areas up to three nautical miles off Tawau, Semporna, Kunak, Lahad Datu, Kinabatangan, Sandakan and Beluran.

       Residents in the areas involved were not allowed to leave their homes during curfew hours, while outsiders were not allowed to enter the curfew zones, he said.

       “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 on the islands,” Idris said in a statement yesterday.

       He said according to intelligence sources, kidnap-for-ransom groups and Abu Sayyaf militants were still trying to attack and commit cross-border crimes.

       As such, he said the curfew allowed authorities to ensure the safety of locals who use the waters and lived near the Eastern Sabah Security Zone (Esszone).

       “The curfew is to facilitate the enforcement and monitoring of boat activities in the area, as well as to establish a sense of security with chalet owners and fishermen through the presence of a security team,” Idris said.

       The sea curfew was first implemented on July 19, 2014 following a spate of kidnappings which saw the beheading of a Malay- sian.