51. MNLF warns of ‘long war’ with Malaysia

MNLF warns of ‘long war’ with Malaysia

http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2013/04/01/925588/mnlf-warns-long-war-malaysia

 

By Perseus Echeminada and Jaime Laude (The Philippine Star) | Updated April 1, 2013 - 12:00am

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MANILA, Philippines - The Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) yesterday warned of a “long, protracted war” against Malaysia if the country will not heed the call of the United Nations for a peaceful resolution of the ongoing Sabah crisis.
MNLF spokesman Emmanuel Fontanilla told The STAR that the royal army of the sultanate of Sulu and thousands of Tausugs in Sabah are now waging a guerrilla war against the Malaysian forces over their claim to the disputed territory, and “if Malaysia will not sit on the negotiating table and continue its barbaric all-out war, it will be facing a long protracted war against the Tausug people in Sabah.”
Fontanilla also said the MNLF would elevate the cases of human rights violations allegedly committed by Malaysian forces against Filipino Muslims in Sabah to the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) next week.
He said the MNLF central committee is drafting the petition, and that the elevation of the Sabah conflict to the OIC is MNLF’s top priority because the group has a permanent observer status representing Filipino Muslims in the council.
Fontanilla also condemned the alleged support of President Aquino for the Malaysian government in quashing Sultan Jamalul Kiram III and his royal army, who are now the subject of a massive military operation in Sabah.
“Instead of working for Malaysia, the President should have remained neutral and pursued the promotion and protection of rights of the Filipinos in Sabah in accordance with International laws,” Fontanilla said.

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Phl, Malaysia ties strong

Meanwhile, United States-based think tank Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) said that the relations between the Philippines and Malaysia would remain strong despite the Sabah crisis.
But CSIS also noted that the Sabah conflict is taking its toll on people-to-people relations between the two Southeast Asian countries due to rising nationalist sentiments.
“Malaysia and Philippines are close partners on economic and security issues and the relationship between the two governments appears largely unaffected by the conflict,” said Gregory Polling of CSIS.
But the fighting between the sultanate’s forces and Malaysian security forces is hurting people-to-people relations between Filipinos and Malaysians, as the crisis continues to spawn nationalistic sentiments on both sides towards the issue.
Polling also said both the Filipino and Malaysian publics have been critical of their government’s handling of the conflict and disapprove of the escalating violence.
“Many groups in the Philippines sympathize with Sultan Kiram’s cause and believe that he has been wronged by history. Many are concerned about the 800,000 Filipinos living in Sabah, many of them poor and undocumented, who could be targeted in the assault or deported,” Polling said.
He also said the public mood worsened when President Aquino urged the sultanate fighters to surrender.
If the conflict in Sabah further worsens, speculations are also high that Malaysian leadership will use this as a ground to postpone the elections.
“This is extremely unlikely because many Malaysians would consider it a mere ruse to delay the polls at a time when the ruling coalition’s popularity has been falling,” Polling said.

50. 5,000 Pinoys in Sabah displaced by standoff

5,000 Pinoys in Sabah displaced by standoff

http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2013/04/01/925585/5000-pinoys-sabah-displaced-standoff

By John Unson (The Philippine Star) | Updated April 1, 2013 - 12:00am

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COTABATO CITY, Philippines – Close to 5,000 Filipinos residing in Sabah have been displaced by the clashes between Malaysian security forces and armed followers of the Sulu sultanate who pressed their proprietary claims over the territory.
Most of the displaced individuals were from the island provinces of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) working in farms in Sabah.
The National Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (NDRRMC) said about 4,721 Filipinos have returned to Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi. Of the number, 2,861 were adults and 1,860 were children or minors.
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in ARMM said most of the displaced individuals are currently sheltered in evacuation centers in Mahardika Institute of Technology, Tubig-Tahan Elementary School, Tawi-Tawi School of Arts and Trade, Housing Project Elementary School, Panglima Annao Elementary School and Pahut Elementary School, all in Bongao, Tawi-Tawi.
The DSWD, the Department of Foreign Affairs, Department of Labor and Employment, and the Bureau of Immigration have established a processing center in Taganak, Tawi-Tawi to assist the refugees who need psycho-social interventions, legal documents, skills training, and livelihood.
The ARMM government has created Task Force Tabang to assist the evacuees.

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Provincial prosecutors, in coordination with the Commission on Human Rights, have been documenting complaints of abuses committed by Malaysian security forces against Filipinos in Sabah following the encounter with the followers of the Sulu sultanate.
Major General Rey Ardo, chief of the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom), said they have created a crisis management committee to help look into the plight of evacuees from Sabah.
Meanwhile, activist groups have urged President Aquino to revive the country’s claim to Sabah.
The fisherfolk alliance Pambansang Lakas ng Kilusang Mamamalakaya ng Pilipinas (Pamalakaya) and Anakpawis patylist said Malacañang should categorically insist that Sabah is part of the country’s territory based on historical accounts.
“Why can’t the President tell Kuala Lumpur that Sabah belongs to 99 million Filipinos and we will do whatever we can do to get back what is legally and morally ours? This act if done is as easy as singing the alphabet song,”” Pamalakaya chair head and AnakPawis party-list vice chairman Fernando Hicap said.
For his part, Pamalakaya vice chair Salvador France challenged President Aquino to file charges of war crimes before the International Criminal Court against the Malaysian government.
– With Michelle Zoleta

49. Sultan’s army gets reinforcements in Sabah

Sultan’s army gets reinforcements in Sabah

http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2013/04/01/925541/sultans-army-gets-reinforcements-sabah

By Perseus Echeminada, Helen Flores (The Philippine Star) | Updated April 1, 2013 - 12:00am

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MANILA, Philippines - Some 100 heavily armed men have joined the followers of Agbimuddin Kiram in Sabah to continue fighting Malaysian forces in Lahad Datu, sultanate spokesman Abraham Idjirani said yesterday.
Idjirani said Agbimuddin, brother of Sulu Sultan Jamalul Kiram III called him up to report that some heavily armed civilians have joined the fighting in Sabah. 
Idjirani said the civilians managed to slip through the sea blockade of the Malaysian and Philippine navy forces in going to Sabah.
“(Agbimuddin) called me about the arrival of civilians with arms who have joined the royal security forces,” Idjirani said.
It was not known where the armed civilians came from but sources said some are Tausugs from various parts of Mindanao who arrived in small groups to avoid the Malaysian and Philippine naval blockade at the Sulu Sea.
Heavy fighting was reported in Lahad Datu yesterday where Malaysian troops are conducting mopping-up operations to flush out the remaining members of Kiram’s forces.

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Idjirani also reported that relatives of Kiram who are long-time residents of Sabah went into hiding after Malaysian police began its crackdown on suspected supporters of the sultan’s army.
“The relatives of sultan are now living in fear and have gone into hiding,” he said.

DFA visits 8 accused of terrorism

Last Thursday, Philippine embassy officials in Kuala Lumpur were allowed to visit eight men facing charges for terrorism-related violence for their involvement in the Sabah incident.
Philippine Ambassador to Kuala Lumpur Eduardo Malaya, in a statement, identified the eight as Atik Hussin Bin Abu Bakar, Basad H. Manuel, Habil Bin Suhali, Holland Bin Kalbi, Thimhar Hadil Sultan, Lin Bin Mad Salleh, Kadir Bin Uyung and Lating Bin Tiong.
Malaya did not say if the eight, detained at the prison facility in Tawau, are Filipinos. The Sulu sultanate had earlier said the eight are Malaysians.
He said it is the “standing policy” of the government “to provide appropriate consular assistance to nationals in distress, whether or not we agree with their acts or advocacies... We would like to ensure that their rights as accused are respected and that they have legal representation when court sessions resume on April 12 as promised by Malaysia authorities.”
Malaya said the embassy team, led by First Secretary and Consul Antonina Mendoza-Oblena and director Renato Villa, talked to the eight and asked them about their prison conditions. The team also asked the accused about their places of origin and respective families.
The eight were the first to face charges since about 200 followers of the Sulu sultan assembled at the coastal town of Lahad Datu last month to press ownership over Sabah.
The embassy said it may be difficult to extend consular assistance to the sultan’s brother Agbimuddin. Malaysian Defense Minister Datuk Seri Zahid Hamidi said Agbimuddin is a Malaysian citizen who worked as a civil servant in Sabah.

48. Military base at Tanduoa?

Armed Forces base is proposed for Tanduo

Published on: Friday, March 29, 2013

TUNGKU: Kampung Tanduo, the coastal village where almost 300 Filipino terrorists landed undetected on Feb. 12 in an attempt to claim Sabah for the so-called Sulu sultanate and which resulted in a protracted battle with Malaysian Forces when they refused to surrender will be relaced by an Armed Forces base to ensure no repeat.
The military base under the special security area (Esscom) is proposed as it is strategically located facing the Sulu and Sulawesi seas.
"There will be no more settlements as the area is more suitable for the setting up of a security forces base," said Tungku Assemblyman, Datuk Mohd Suhaili.
"Kg Tanduo will permanently closed and the 20 families in 15 houses will be relocated to an area where they would be provided with better security and facilities.
"The villagers will also have better comfort as the new settlements will be equipped with various facilities such as clinic and kindergartens," said Suhaili when presenting the RM1,000 special allowance for affected villagers from eight villages in Felda Sahabat.
District Officer, Zulkifli Nasir said a 300-acre site has been identified at Kg Sungai Merah to resettle the villagers from Kg Tanduo. He said the proposal was approved by National Security Council and the police.
"The proposed location will be submitted to Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman for approval," added Zulkifli. 

http://www.dailyexpress.com.my/news.cfm?NewsID=84758

47. Vat69 Bravo Commandos Recall March 1 Offensive As A Day It Rained Bullets

Vat69 Bravo Commandos Recall March 1 Offensive As A Day It Rained Bullets

http://www.bernama.com/bernama/v7/ge/newsgeneral.php?id=937313

KUALA LUMPUR, March 25 (Bernama) -- "It was raining bullets" was how VAT69 commandos involved in the offensive between security forces and Sulu terrorists in Lahad Datu last March 1, described the experience.

Insp Azwanazlee Saffiai, 33, said two teams, the Special Action Unit VAT 69 Bravo of which he was a member, and a security unit, Charlie, each of which comprised 34 personnel and officers, were in the thick of the confrontation, motivated by an attempt by the terrorists to ambush Charlie.

"While attempting to ambush Charlie, the terrorists had entered our sector and warned us to leave the area. But we stood our ground and waited for the order to shoot from our commander.

"They moved closer and at about 10 meters away started firing at us," he told Bernama, here today, when recalling the incident.

In the confrontation at a swampy oil palm plantation that went on for one hour, ASP Zulkifli Mamat, 29, and Sgt Sabaruddin Daud, 46, were killed while 15 of the terrorists were shot dead by the security forces.

Azwanazlee said that initially the terrorist group could not be overpowered despite being shot repeatedly, and we suspected they could be using 'supernatural powers' and only when the order to aim at their heads was given did we managed to gun them down.

Meanwhile, Cpl Muhammad Imran Abd Talib, 28, who was in the Alpha sector that was deployed to Kampung Tanduo, said he advanced as close as two meters to bring down the enemies.

"My mates and I were preparing food when we heard shots from where the Bravo sector was stationed," said the son of a former commando.

According to him, the oil palm trees fortunately served to protect them: "Fighting in the forest is not the same as in the plantation and there are not many houses. The view is wider and we can be easily seen by the enemy.

"After the fight I saw that our place of shelter was full of gunshot marks. I'm thankful that none of the bullets hit me," he said.

Muhammad Imran said he was forced to postpone his engagement but was glad to be given an opportunity to serve and defend the country.

-- BERNAMA

46. Widows Of Slain Policemen Honoured With Posthumous Promotion

Widows Of Slain Policemen Honoured With Posthumous Promotion

http://www.bernama.com/bernama/v7/ge/newsgeneral.php?id=937332

KUALA LUMPUR, March 26 (Bernama) -- The widows of policemen killed in the intrusion in Lahad Datu were honoured with the posthumous promotion awarded by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak to mark 206th Police Day Monday.

Noor Aziah Noor, 28, widow of Insp Zulkifli Mamat, 29, who was promoted to ASP said although her husband was not present, she was proud that his sacrifice was appreciated.

"I am sure that he would be very proud to receive the award. I am very grateful for that," she told Bernama when met after the ceremony at the Police Training Centre here Monday.

The late Zulkifli was killed on March 1 in a mortar attack in Kampung Tanduo, Lahad Datu, the hideout for terrorists from southern Philippines.

Jabah Anak Mingku, 35, the widow of Michael Padel, 36, said eventhough she was sad for losing a loved one, the promotion lifted her spirit.

Michael Padel who was killed in an ambush in Kampung Sri Jaya, Simunul, Semporna was promoted from ASP to DSP.

Marlinah Utan, 38, the widow of Corporal Salam Tugiran, 42, was also honoured with the award for her husband.

Salam who was promoted from Corporal to Sargeant was slain in an ambush by terrorists in Kampung Sri Jaya, Simunul, Semporna.

Nurunnisa Abu Bakar,42, the widow of Sgt Sabaruddin Daud, 47, intend to move out of the police quarters in Ulu Kinta, Perak to start a new life.

"I am grateful as my husband's promotion from Corporal to Sargeant would help ease my burden to support my three children," she said.

Four more policemen also promoted were Ibrahim Lebar (Supt to ACP), Abdul Azis Sarikon (Sgt to Sgt Maj), Mohd Azrul Tukiran (from L/Corp to Corp) and Baharin Hamit (from Sgt to Sgt Maj).

-- BERNAMA

45. One More Sulu Terrorist Surrenders Himself To Security Forces

One More Sulu Terrorist Surrenders Himself To Security Forces

http://www.bernama.com/bernama/v7/ge/newsgeneral.php?id=937322

LAHAD DATU, March 25 (Bernama) -- A Sulu terrorist was detained when he surrendered himself after stumbling upon security forces mopping up the area in Tanjung Batu, here, Monday.

In the incident at about 5pm, a special task force unit of the Armed Forces was conducting an operation in a swampy area before bumping into the terrorist.

The intruder tried to flee but was caught after a chase and he surrendered himself.

The man, believed to be unarmed, gave himself up by raising his hands and asking security forces not to shoot him.

It was learnt that two armoured tanks were rushed to the operation area to continue hunting for other terrorists.

The rush for support was necessary as the decision to surrender could be another ploy to lure security forces into an ambush.

However, after clearing the position, security forces moved in to detain him and was later handed over to the VAT69 team for further action, including bringing him to a temporary lockup, for interrogation.

Army Chief General Tan Sri Datuk Seri Zulkifli Zainal Abidin when contacted confirmed the incident.

Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Tan Sri Khalid Abu Bakar said the terrorist was now under police custody and a media conference with the Armed Forces would be held tomorrow.

To date, the number of people detained under the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act 2012 has increased to 111 while the number of terrorists killed remained at 67 while 42 bodies have been brought out of the operation site .

-- BERNAMA

44. Sulu sultan’s nephew arrested in Sabah

Sulu sultan’s nephew arrested in Sabah 

 http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2013/03/25/923717/sulu-sultans-nephew-arrested-sabah

By Perseus Echeminada (The Philippine Star) | Updated March 25, 2013 - 12:00am

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MANILA, Philippines - A nephew of Sulu Sultan Jamalul Kiram III said to be one of the leaders of the group that occupied Lahad Datu in Sabah was arrested early yesterday, Malaysia’s The Star Online reported.
Amirbahar Hushin Kiram, 50, and his wife Gina Taves Kiram, 47, were cornered by the police in a swampy area in Kampung Sri Melor Bugaya, Semporna.
Sultanate spokesman Abraham Idjirani confirmed Amirbahar is the son of Bantilan Sultan Ismael Kiram, the younger brother of Jamalul III.
He said Amirbahar is a resident of Sabah, a fact that was confirmed by reports from Malaysian news agencies that identified him as a “local.”
Malaysia’s New Straits Times quoted Deputy Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Khalid Abu Bakar as saying the Kiram couple coordinated and supplied the needs of the gunmen that occupied Lahad Datu on Feb. 12.
Khalid said Amirbahar is a key player in the incursion, along with the sultan’s younger brother Agbimuddin Kiram, who is believed to have fled to Mindanao earlier this month.

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Malaysia’s The Star Online also quoted Defense Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi as saying that Agbimuddin is a Malaysian citizen who had worked as a civil servant in Sabah.
Mercenaries Zahid also described the gunmen that fought alongside the Kirams as mercenaries.
He said this was corroborated by the Philippine government following a meeting with Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario and Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin.
“We received similar feedback from the Philippine government that the armed men were paid to carry out the attacks in Sabah. We have learned that they are used to carrying weapons and have done so since the 1970s during the armed struggle helmed by Nur Misuari, the founding chairman of the Moro National Liberation Front,” Zahid told The Star Online.
Zahid said the intruders never left home unarmed.
“They would carry machine guns like we carry cell phones,” he added.
Zahid said Agbimuddin worked as assistant district officer in Kudat when Tun Datu Mustapha Datu Harun was Sabah chief minister. Mustapha was chief minister between 1967 and 1975.
“He was given Malaysian citizenship during Tun Mustapha’s time. However, I can’t say whether he is still a Malaysian citizen,” Zahid said.
He also denied claims that there was a plot by the Malaysian government to assassinate the Sulu sultan.
Zahid said Kiram should not worry and gave assurance that Malaysia had no plans to intrude into the Philippines to get him.
Zahid, however, urged the sultan to pull back his men from Sabah.
Home Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein said his ministry would work with foreign intelligence agencies, including the Philippines’ National Intelligence Coordinating Agency, to investigate the people behind the intrusion and ensure justice is carried out.
“We will strengthen the cooperation among the network of intelligence agencies in countries, including Indonesia, to ensure that stability and security in the region are not compromised, and prevent the infiltration of terrorists.”

43 -'Involvement of individuals nothing to do with Umno'

'Involvement of individuals nothing to do with Umno'   http://www.dailyexpress.com.my/news.cfm?NewsID=84720

Published on: Sunday, March 24, 2013

Kota Kinabalu: Umno Information Chief Datuk Ahmad Haji Maslan said the involvement of the party's branch leaders in the Lahad Datu incident was their own personal agenda and nothing to do with the party.
He told reporters this after he officiated at the Himpunan Patriot Gabungan NGO-NGO Sabah by eight Muslim non-governmental organisations in Sabah at Maksak hall, Saturday.
He was asked about the alleged involvement of certain Umno leaders at the Lahad Datu branch-level in the incident, as posted in news portal Sabahkini on Feb. 27, which the party has never confirmed, denied nor taken action on.
On whether the alleged involvement of Umno Sungai Nyamuk branch Chief Ahmad Malindi as named in the post is true, Ahmad said:
"Let the Umno leaders in Sabah make any announcement on it ÉI am confident that he did it because of his own personal basis and agenda, and nothing to do with the party.
"Umno never instructed anyone to do violent things, because our struggles are for the country, race and religion, to defend the country's sovereignty and the people's interests É we never promote violence," he said.
Earlier, he said whatever that happened and the violence in Lahad Datu had nothing to do with any ethnic race or party, but only involved bad and greedy individuals.
"Violence is not specific to any race, ethnicity, religion or political party.
People who commit violence are very bad and greedy people, whoever they areÉthey are not doing it because of Umno or whatever, it is just because of their very bad attitude." Ahmad had a meeting with Umno leaders in Lahad Datu during his recent visit to see for himself the real situation there.
On another issue, Ahmad said the opposition's claim that Agbimuddin Kiram who led the Jamalul Kiram III's armed militant group into Sabah had worked as Assistant District Officer (ADO) in Kudat also has nothing to do with Umno because it was in the 1970s while Umno came into Sabah in 1990.
"I believe this is another attempt by PKR to accuse Umno as being behind the Lahad Datu intrusion. Umno is a rational party. Barisan Nasional (BN) always acts methodically and thus how can we stage the incident as alleged?" he asked.
He said he himself had gone to Lahad Datu and saw the actual situation while the opposition leaders are only talking from their comfortable air-conditioned office.
"They (opposition leaders) are very irresponsible in the statements they make and I believe Sabahans are wise enough to judge such people and will not give them a chance in SabahÉthis is unlike in Umno because we know everything and do everything for the people," he said.
On the impact of the Lahad Datu incident on Felda Sahabat plantation operations, Ahmad said Felda Sahabat was a little affected as one of the mills had to temporarily cease operation and some areas had temporarily stopped work.
"But this does not affect the whole operations, because the security forces managed to control the situation. We see positive progress every day and we hope this can be resolved as soon as possible," he said.
Ahmad also disclosed a proposal by the eight Muslim NGOs that the government consider increasing the number of Sabahans in the police, army, APMM and Rela in Sabah because they believe the locals are much better in protecting the State.
"Who would be more patriotic in defending their own kampung (village) than the people who live thereÉthis is not to say the others are not as patriotic, but there is a difference between you protecting your hometown and people coming in to protect your hometown," he said.
So the NGOs concerned hope the additional security manpower to be provided under Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCOM) will be filled by Sabahans.

42 - Special Branch working with Philippine intelligence on intrusion

Special Branch working with Philippine intelligence on intrusion

http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/malaysia/article/special-branch-working-with-philippine-intelligence-on-intrusion/

March 23, 2013

KLUANG, March 23 – Home Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein said the Royal Malaysian Police’s Special Branch was working closely with the Philippine National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (Nica) to investigate and identify the mastermind behind the recent terrorist intrusion in Sabah.
“Our police Special Branch has good relations with the agency. We have obtained intelligence on the involvement of a third party and information on the (Jamalul) Kiram group.
“The intelligence could also involve the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), Nur Misuari group, politicians or terrorists,” he told reporters after opening the Pusat Giat Semberong at the Taman Sri Lambak hall here.
According to him, the good relations between Kuala Lumpur and Manila were reflected in the Philippine coastguards detaining 38 people who were intercepted encroaching in the waters off Tawi-Tawi.
He said the ministry had long established a network cooperation with the regional intelligence agency to ensure stability in the region.
The bilateral intelligence collaboration was not only between Malaysia and the Philippines but also with Aseanapol and the member countries involved in it, such as Indonesia, added the minister.
On the proposed Royal Commission of Inquiry (RCI) to investigate the Sabah terrorist intrusion, he said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak would outline it on Monday, in conjunction with Police Day.
He said, although the government had not made any decision on the RCI, the ministry had carried out its work to identify the mastermind behind the intrusion in which 10 security force members and 63 of the terrorists were killed. – Bernama

41- Sulu militant commander held ....

Sulu militant commander held, movements crippled, say police

http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/malaysia/article/sulu-militant-commander-held-movements-crippled-say-police

March 23, 2013

LAHAD DATU, March 23 — The security forces have successfully crippled the movements of the terrorists from Sulu who intruded into Lahad Datu after capturing their military commander in Semporna early this morning.
Deputy Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Khalid Abu Bakar (picture) said the man, in his 40s, was detained with his wife at a swampy area at 1.30am after a tip-off.
He said the security forces also detained a local who provided all the needs of the terrorists from the early days of their landing in Kampung Tanduo on February 9 until today.
Without going into further details on the terrorist detained, Khalid said the man was caught at 10pm yesterday in Kampung Tanduo and was now being held under the Immigration Act.  
“The local co-ordinator has been identified as the individual who made arrangements for food and drinks, accommodation, transportation and medicine for the terrorists since the early part of the intrusion.
“With the capture of the commander and a local stooge of the terrorists, I am confident the terrorist group is now crippled,” he told a media conference at the security forces operations headquarters at Felda Sahabat 16 near here today. 
Khalid said with the capture of the two individuals, he believed the movements of the remnants of the terrorists were now limited and weakened as they were directionless and no longer getting assistance from locals.   
Thanking the local community for furnishing information which had led to the capture of a most wanted individual, Khalid said Operasi Daulat (the offensive against the terrorists), which entered its 19th day today, would still be continued and expected the community in Lahad Datu would resume they normal lives soon. 
On the latest statistics of Operasi Daulat, he said to date 408 people had been detained for numerous offences, while the number of terrorists shot dead remained at 63.
He said 38 bodies of the terrorists were also retrieved from the operation area, including eight which were taken out of Kampung Tanjung Batu yesterday.
The bodies were now undergoing post-mortems at the Lahad Datu Hospital, he said.
On the incident in Kembara Sakti yesterday, Khalid said the number of security forces in the village had been increased to boost the confidence of  the residents to continue their normal lives.
“There is no reason for them to be afraid and I advise all community members, residents and plantation workers in Kembara Sakti to return home as the security forces will always protect them,” he said.
He said preliminary investigation by police found the matter to be only rumours which was exaggerated and caused worry to residents.
About 1,000 residents in Kampung Kembara Sakti were reported to have moved to a nearby religious school and mosque after a housewife claimed four hungry terrorists came to her house when she was alone and tied her hands and feet.
The woman was said to have untied her bonds and escaped when the militants were busy looking for food. — Bernama

40. Malaysia files terror raps vs. 8 Filipinos

Malaysia files terror raps vs. 8 Filipinos

• http://www.manilatimes.net/index.php/news/top-stories/43940-malaysia-files-terror-raps-vs-8-filipinos

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Written by AFP

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Muslim women and children pray during a rally held in Pasig City to call for a peaceful resolution to the worsening crisis in Sabah. Malaysian authorities on Wednesday filed charges against eight Filipinos accused of supporting followers of the Sultanate of Sulu. PHOTO BY MIGUEL DE GUZMAN

KUALA LUMPUR: A Malaysian court on Wednesday charged eight Filipinos with terrorism-related offenses, punishable by death, over an incursion that has left scores dead, the national news agency said.

Malaysian security forces have been pursuing more than 200 followers of a self-proclaimed Filipino sultan, many of whom are believed to be armed, who entered Sabah state on Borneo island last month to resurrect long-dormant land claims.

Clashes between the gunmen and Malaysian forces, who launched a military attack on their hideout two weeks ago, have led to at least 70 deaths, mostly of militants.

The eight men charged are among more than 100 arrested under a security law in relation to the incursion and are the first to face the court.

They were charged with “harboring persons committing terrorist acts” and “waging of war” against the country’s king, which is punishable by a life-term imprisonment or death, Bernama news agency reported.

The men from the southern Philippines, aged between 17 and 66, did not enter pleas, it said.

They were charged in front of a judge, who came to the heavily guarded police station in Lahad Datu town, which is near palm oil estates and coastal villages where security forces are still chasing some remaining militants.

Prosecutors or other officials could not immediately be reached for further details.

Malaysian forces launched a military assault on March 5 against the group, sending them fleeing from a farming village where they had been holed up since mid-February.

The crisis has embarrassed the Philippines and Malaysia, shining the spotlight on the latter’s porous border and locals’ complaints of rampant illegal immigration and lawlessness.

A total of 800,000 Filipinos live in Sabah, making up about a quarter of the population of the state, which is just a short boat ride from the southern Philippines.    

39. Sabah Suluks will not be victimised, assures PM

Sabah Suluks will not be victimised, assures PM

Published on: Sunday, March 17, 2013 http://www.dailyexpress.com.my/news.cfm?NewsID=84631

Putra Jaya: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak assured the Suluk community in Sabah that they will not be victimised.
"We need to separate the local Suluk and the intruders as local Suluks are model citizens. We cannot lump them together as threats to the country.
"We must implement confidence building measures so they understand this is in order to face the groups of terrorists," he said.
He said the Special Security Area in Sabah (ESSCOM) took into account the Rajang Area Security Command (RASCOM) model di Sarawak which was found to be very effective in facing current challenges.
"I also ask that the cabins be constructed quickly without having to wait for permanent buildings.
"We start as soon as possible and the cabins must be comfortable so they could carry out their duties comfortably and give confidence to the people of eastern Sabah specifically on the effort of the government in tackling the latest threat.
"Further details on the structure of ESSCOM are expected to be announced at the end of next week. Hopefully, we can discuss with the state government of Sabah," he said.
He also wanted the Defence Ministry to appoint the most suitable officer to head the team to serve in ESSCOM which covered the districts of Kudat, Tawau, Kunak, Sandakan and Lahad Datu in Sabah.
Najib also said the government is prepared to approve an additional allocation to boost the capability of the Armed Forces (ATM).
Following the incident in Lahad Datu and Semporna in Sabah recently, he said, the government would carry out overall improvements in terms of equipment, training, skills and intelligence of ATM.
"If there are anything which we need to add, God willing, the Government is prepared to approve an additional allocation to upgrade the capability of the ATM.
"We need to give confidence to the people over the question of territorial sovereignty and national security.
We need to do whatever is required for the future of the people," he said at 'An evening with the Prime Minister and Retired Senior Officers of the ATM' at Seri Perdana, Saturday.
More than 200 retired senior officers of the ATM attended the event.
Also present were Defence Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and Armed Forces chief, General Tan Sri Zulkifeli Mohd Zin.

38. 6 new Police Stations in ESSCOM

Six new police stations within a month: Ali

Published on: Sunday, March 17, 2013 http://www.dailyexpress.com.my/news.cfm?NewsID=84633

Kota Kinabalu: Six police stations and three more customs, immigration and quarantine stations are to be established within a month in the Eastern Sabah Security Command (Esscom) area, Chief Secretary to the Government Datuk Seri Dr Ali Hamsa said Saturday.
"That's our immediate target, what we are looking at.
We will start with a temporary office for the police and immigration posts.
"We will start as soon as possible. In fact the areas have been identified, and we will take action immediately," he told reporters.
Ali had chaired the first meeting of the national-level committee of the Esscom here on Friday night. It was attended by Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Ismail Omar, Chief of Defence Forces Gen Tan Sri Zulkifeli Mohd Zin and representatives of the relevant departments and agencies, including the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA).
Ali said the enhancement of the capability and capacity of the armed forces and the police force was the main priority towards the realisation of the Esscom.
The Government viewed the matter with urgency as it was committed to maintaining security in Sabah, he said.
He said the organisational structure of the Esscom would be worked out soon by a legal team.
"Once the legal formation of the Esscom has been agreed upon, the appointment of the CEO (chief executive officer) of the Esscom will be done with the agreement of the State Government," he said, adding that all recommendations by the Esscom committee would be put forward to the Federal Government for approval.
Ali said for the long term, the Government was looking at more developmental areas, including housing and some infrastructure development.
"The battalions required by the army and the police will also be coming in mid term. But for the immediate term, they have some mechanism where other methods are used," he said.
Asked on the overall budget for the whole operation of the Esscom, Ali said he had asked all the relevant parties to come up with their immediate and long-term plans or needs.
"I think that in terms of budget, the Federal Government will allocate that ... it's an urgent matter for us," he said.
Asked to elaborate on the appointment of the Esscom CEO, he said: "The exact name (of the post), we are not sure yet but that looks like a closer name, chief executive officer, it sounds better.
"He will coordinate all the police, army and all the civilian departments.
There are a few candidates. Let the State (Sabah Government) put forward some candidates and then we will choose one," he said, adding that the next meeting of Esscom would be in Putrajaya on Monday.

37. Muslim rebels involved in Malaysia: MNLF

Muslim rebels involved in Malaysia: MNLF

http://www.manilatimes.net/index.php/news/breaking-news/42793-muslim-rebels-involved-in-malaysia-mnlf

Published on 05 March 2013

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Written by AFP

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 MANILA: Members of a major Philippine Muslim rebel force who were meant to have disarmed in the 1990s as part of a peace pact are involved in deadly battles in Malaysia, the group's leader said on Tuesday.


Nur Misuari, who founded the Moro National Liberation Front in the late 1960s, confirmed "freedom fighters" from his group were part of the militia sent by a self-proclaimed sultan to claim the Malaysian state of Sabah.

"I cannot deny that some of them are known to be MNLF freedom fighters," Misuari told a news conference in Manila, although he insisted he was not personally involved.

"They went there without my knowledge. I have not ordered anyone to join them. It would be very irresponsible for anybody to implicate us."

Misuari made the comments while visiting Jamalul Kiram III, the self-anointed Sultan of Sulu, who sent between 100 and 300 men from the southern Philippines to Sabah on February 12 to press his ownership claim.

Malaysian security forces launched a major offensive on Tuesday to end the standoff, which has so far left at least 27 people dead, although the sultan's men reported that they had survived.

The MNLF "freedom fighters" earnt their battle experience during decades of armed struggle against the Philippine government that cost tens of thousands of lives.

The MNLF had fought for an independent state in the southern Philippines, while also claiming Sabah state as part of their ancestral homeland.

The group signed a peace pact with the Philippine government in 1996 which created a Muslim autonomous region in the south, and set aside the claim over Sabah.

The MNLF peace pact led to a less-compromising splinter group, the Moro Islamic Liberation front, continuing the battle for independence.

The MILF is now close to signing a final peace deal with the government, which ignores the Sabah claim completely and would lead to the MNLF losing political influence in the southern Philippines.

Observers have speculated MNLF members may have helped launch the Malaysia offensive because they feared they were losing power.

However Misuari insisted MNLF leaders were not involved directly in the Malaysia standoff, and even offered to go to Kuala Lumpur to mediate a peaceful solution.

Meanwhile on Tuesday, President Benigno Aquino's spokesman, Edwin Lacierda, said that the Philippine Navy had stopped 70 more people from getting across the sea border to help the militants.

36. Ops Daulat continues

'Ops Daulat' Continues Until Red Zone Is Rid Of Terrorists

KUALA LUMPUR, March 16 (Bernama) -- The operation, 'Ops Daulat', to hunt the remants of the armed terrorists who intruded into Lahad Datu on Feb 12, will continue until all areas in the district are rid of the intruders from southern Philippines.

Confident the operation could be completed in the near future, the security forces believe there are only 50 terrorists in hiding in the area.

The estimate was arrived at, based on the number who were shot dead, captured and escaped to southern Philippines.

"We will finish it (operation) as soon as possible," said Sabah Police Commissioner Datuk Hamza Taib who stressed that the security forces did not have a deadline for the operation.

After 12 days of 'Ops Daulat', Kampung Tanduo, which prior to this was a stronghold of the terrorists, is now clean, and the security forces believed the cleansing of Kampung Tanjung Batu could be completed tomorrow.

Hamza said, the affected villagers would be allowed to return after the security forces had cleared the area of bobby traps and other threats, and hold discussions with community leaders.

"We will station members of the security forces to make sure no terrorist is able to return to the villages in question," he said.

In the 72 hours until 5pm today, there was no shootout between the security forces and terrorists.

The security forces launched an offensive against the terrorists from Sulu on March 5, after a series of failed negotiations with the group which intruded into the beaches of Lahad Datu since Feb 12.

During the period, 61 terrorists were shot dead, with 27 of their bodies removed from the red zone, while 104 were detained on suspicion of having links with the terrorists. An additional 232 were detained for being in forbidden areas.

Nine members of the security forces, comprising eight policemen and a soldier, were killed in firefights with the terrorists. Another soldier was killed in a road mishap involving an army truck in a convoy for 'Ops Daulat'.

http://www.bernama.com/bernama/v7/newsindex.php?id=935019

35. KL is what????

Ex-Lahad Datu OCPD: If only KL had listened

 

http://www.dailyexpress.com.my/news.cfm?NewsID=84612

Published on: Friday, March 15, 2013

Kota Kinabalu: A former Lahad Datu police chief blamed what happened last month that cost nine servicemen their lives on the Federal Government for continuous ignorance on the security aspect in Sabah especially at the affected district.
Kamis Daming said Kuala Lumpur never entertained any suggestions and requests for upgrading security in the district.
"When I was in Lahad Datu five years ago, I had often expressed concerns to our superiors about the possibility of intrusion by foreign elements, but our proposals and requests for security beef-up were looked at very lightly," he told reporters, Thursday.
Kamis said Lahad Datu district police have never had sufficient equipment and their four-wheel drive vehicles always broke down and the patrol boats would be in dire condition.
He said the district also had insufficient personnel and always faced fuel supply shortage because the supplier refused to supply due to the great amount of debt that had yet to be settled.
"Another sad thing is that some of the police officers and personnel have to rent a house outside the police compound because there are not enough quarters," he said.
Low-rank personnel are forced to stay in dilapidated police barracks which have holes on the ceiling and floors because there were no houses outside available for them to rent.
"And when we filed an application for funds to repair the barracks, headquarters would reply that no allocations were available yet," said Kamis.
"Living under such an environment is so demoralising for the low-rank personnelÉso what can be expected from them?" he asked.
Kamis supported Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP) President Datuk Yong Teck Lee's statement that Sabahans have sounded the alarm bells for decades about the threat posed by illegal immigrants in Sabah but that it was Kuala Lumpur that was nonchalant about it.
According to Yong, the statement by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak describing the Sulu intrusion into Sabah as a wake-up call is already too late because serious damage had already been inflicted on Sabah.
"Many alarm bells were sounded by Sabahans over the decades but Kuala Lumpur never woke up until it is too late," Yong had said.

34- so at last, this is the punishment

Please don't harm Sabah any more...

 

http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2013/03/16/920188/38-men-headed-sabah-charged-doj

 

38 men headed for Sabah charged by DOJ

 (The Philippine Star) | Updated March 16, 2013 - 12:00am

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MANILA, Philippines - Criminal charges were filed yesterday against the 38 passengers of two boats intercepted in the Sulu Sea last Wednesday while reportedly on their way to Sabah to help their comrades fight Malaysian forces.
Prosecutor General Claro Arellano of the Department of Justice (DOJ) said charges of illegal possession of firearms, violation of the election gun ban, and inciting to war – a crime under Article 118 of the Revised Penal Code –  were filed with the Tawi-Tawi regional trial court in Bongao yesterday afternoon against the 38 individuals, not 36 as earlier reported.
This developed as Sulu sultanate spokesman Abraham Idjirani said only 22 of the 38 arrested and detained at the Philippine Navy’s station in Panglima Sugala in Tawi- Tawi were members of the “royal sultanate army.”
The 38 were subjected to inquest Thursday night.
The DOJ cited as evidence the assorted weapons and ammunitions seized from the group.
“They will continue to be detained in the naval facility in Panglima Sugala, Tawi-Tawi unless the court says otherwise,” Justice Secretary Leila de Lima told reporters.

Headlines ( Article MRec ), pagematch: 1, sectionmatch: 1

The 38 comprised the first batch of the armed followers of Sultan Jamalul Kiram III to face charges in the country for their incursion in Sabah.
De Lima insisted the government can prosecute the group led by Agbimuddin Kiram –  a brother of the sultan – under Philippine laws even if the alleged crimes have been committed in Malaysia.
Some 300 followers of the sultan – mostly armed – crossed over to Lahad Datu in Sabah last Feb. 12 to claim the territory as their own.
De Lima said the Philippine legal system has extraterritorial jurisdiction over Agbimuddin and his group under Article 2 Section 2 of Revised Penal Code (RPC).  
But Harry Roque Jr., director of the Institute of International Legal Studies of the UP Law Center, told The STAR that such extraterritorial coverage does not apply to all crimes.
He said such provision does not apply to charges of rebellion, illegal possession of firearms, illegal assembly and violation of the election gun ban.
“The only crime that may be charged in this case is Article 118 or inciting to war. But the defense would be they did not incite to war but only out to reclaim their land,” he stressed.      Idjirani, meanwhile, said the 38 sultanate fighters were led by Datu Panglima Sabandal Eddie Idris of Basilan who holds the rank of general in the sultanate army.
Idjirani said Tawi-Tawi Vice Gov. Ruby Sahali has confirmed the identities of the 38 “warriors” whose only offense, he stressed, was their trying to settle in Sabah. They were fluent in Malay having spent years in Sabah, Idjirani said.
He said the Malaysian navy first spotted the group and alerted the Philippine Navy, which made the arrests. Edu Punay, Mike Frialde, Roel Pareño