GEORGE TOWN, Jan 8 – The Marine Operations Force (MOF) will step up control and monitoring of Malaysian waters to prevent external threats, especially form militant groups. Its commander, SAC Abdul Rahim Abdullah said this was neccessary as militant groups such as IS had expanded their modus operandi to include the sea routes.
“The issue must be taken seriously as it can threaten national security and jeopardise tourist destinations such as Langkawi. We also keep in touch with the Police Special Branch to share information,” he told reporters after visiting MOF Region 1 at Batu Uban, here on Thursday.
“Enforcement would focus on the Straits of Melaka, which is the main route of vessels and boats ferrying illegal immigrants. Last year, 51 human trafficking cases were recorded involving Myanmar nationals who used the sea route to get into this country,” said Abdul Rahim.
