Surveillance shows funds sent to militants in Jolo
LAHAD DATU: A MONEY trail which links armed intruders from Jolo, southern Philippines, and several individuals in Sandakan and Semporna has been detected by the authorities.
Deputy Inspector General of Police Tan Sri Khalid Abu Bakar said the transactions were detected via close monitoring of the terrorist group following the launch of Ops Daulat on March 5.
"We have yet to detain the suspects and this is our warning that stern action will be taken against those found channelling funds to the intruders," he said, adding that they could be hauled up for investigations under the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act 2012.
Kampung Tanduo villagers, all in similar white T-shirts, walking out of their village under close supervision of security personnel after they inspected their homes and ascertained their losses yesterday.
He said those found to be aiding or supporting terrorist activities could face punishment by death or face a life sentence.
Khalid declined to reveal the individuals involved or their nationalities but assured that their actions were being closely monitored.
"There is also no need for us to reveal the amount sent."
"If they continue with their action of threatening our sovereignty, we will not hesitate to take action."
Meanwhile, a malnourished intruder, who had enough of evading the authorities, surrendered himself two days ago near Tanjung Batu.
The 40-year-old suspect appeared weak when security forces nabbed him at a swamp in a red-zone area at about 5pm.
The unarmed terrorist was alone when he stumbled upon security forces who were mopping-up the coastal village and its surrounding. The man attempted to escape but gave up following a chase before security forces detained him.
It is learnt that the the terrorist had told security forces that he was tired and had not been eating properly for 15 days.
He was taken to the Cederawasih police station around 9.30pm for further action. Police also confiscated several items from the suspect, including a document stating 'Lifeguard Security Agency', clothes, a notebook, and lists of email addresses.
Khalid confirmed that the terrorist was under police custody.
He stressed that the malnourished state of the individual was reflective of the condition of the remnants of terrorists hiding in the coastal village.
"As such, we hope that the other terrorists hiding in the undergrowth and swamps will also surrender, now that they do not have food and do not receive orders from their commander who has been caught."
