SEMPORNA: A massive hunt is on to track down a band of gunmen who may have taken a policeman hostage after they killed his colleague here.
Eastern Sabah Security Command Operations Director, Deputy Commissioner Datuk Abdul Rashid Harun said the attack appeared to have been a botched kidnap attempt by the group.
"It is also possible the attack was an act of retaliation to the security forces that have intensified enforcement in waters off the east coast," he said.
Abdul Rashid said the police with help from Esscom are now tracking down the suspects including the policeman who was believed to have been kidnapped by them.
"Esscom will continue its enforcement plans to make ensure the state and the country are safe from such culprits," said Abdul Rashid who will take over as Esscom Commander tomorrow.
"At the same time, I have reminded all security agencies, the police, armed forces and the coastguard (Malaysian Marine Enforcement Agency) to be on full alert because the enemy could strike anytime.
"I advise the public not to speculate on what has happened and allow the police to investigate," he added.