KOTA KINABALU, Aug 12 — Claims that eight soldiers have been killed in a recent ambush by Sulu gunmen in Lahad Datuk have been dismissed as “baseless”.
According to a report in The Star Online today, Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCOM) director-general Datuk Mohammad Mentek said that the claims by a spokesman for self-proclaimed Sulu Sultan Jamalul Kiram III were without any basis and were part of propaganda attempts to spread fear among the people.
“They have been making all sorts of claims to create disharmony and fear among the people. I urge the public not to believe such unfounded claims by these (Sulu) individuals who are using it as propaganda,” he was quoted as saying today.
Several Philippine newspapers had apparently reported that Sulu gunmen had killed eight soldiers.
According to The Star Online, Sabah Police Commissioner Datuk Hamza Taib has also denied the Philippine reports while confirming that there had not been any recent clashes between security forces and Sulu terrorists.
The Philippine news reports had quoted spokesman Abraham Idjirani as saying that the Sultan’s “soldiers”, led by Raja Muda Agbimuddin Kiram (more known as Azzimuddie here), had informed him that eight members of the Malaysian forces were killed after they were ambushed by at least 50 members of the Sultan’s “Royal Security Force” in a Felda plantation in Lahad Datu on Friday.
“There is no basis to such a claim. There were no incidents at all,” ESSCOM chief Mohammed was quoted as saying, adding that security had been on high alert following rumours that the Sulu gunmen were planning a “second wave” of attacks during the Hari Raya.
“It has been a very peaceful Hari Raya, so there no reason for people to worry or panic,” he said.
He also said the public can contact the ESSCOM operational room at 089-863-181 in Lahad Datu for any information or clarification about so-called incidents.
“It is operational 24-7 and they can call anytime,” he was quoted as saying.
