PUTRAJAYA: Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail will meet the Kelantan state government to discuss the destruction of illegal bases that could be used for smuggling.

       He said at the border security committee meeting he chaired recently, the relevant agencies presented data on problems and threats.

       "They also outlined the existence of illegal bases in the northern part of the country, especially in Kedah, Perlis and Kelantan.

       "It was proposed that the Federal Government, state governments and local authorities cooperate to destroy the illegal bases," he told reporters after an event at his residence on Monday (March 4).

       Saifuddin said he would meet the respective state governments involved to discuss these security issues.

       "I will begin the proposal (to destroy illegal bases) in Kelantan as there are some along Sungai Golok.

       "It will be among the topics of discussion with the Mentri Besar," he said.

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       "The state government can assist especially in (determining) whether the illegal bases are on government agency reserve land or owned by the state government and under the jurisdiction of a local authority.

       "Destroying these illegal bases is a must to curb smuggling activities," he said, adding that his ministry would also consult with the neighbouring country involved.

       "We do have an existing border security cooperation agreement," he added.