SEMPORNA: A Chinese citizen was detained last night to facilitate investigations into an indecent act allegedly committed by tourists on Pulau Sibuan.
District police chief Superintendent Peter Umbuas said police arrested the man, in his 30s, at about 9pm.
“He will be remanded until Oct 25 to facilitate investigations under Section 294 (a) of the Penal Code for conducting an obscene act in the public.
“We believe he was among the tourists involved in taking nude photos,” Peter said, adding the others might have already left the state.
Yesterday, photos of naked men and topless women allegedly taken on Pulau Sibuan went viral, causing anger among the people of Sabah particularly Semporna.
District officer Dr Chacho Bulah wrote a letter to Sabah Parks seeking an immediate investigation. A copy of the letter was also forwarded to the police and Eastern Sabah Safety Command.
Chaco said the act had disrespected the people of Semporna.
Meanwhile, Sabah Tourism, Culture and Environment minister Datuk Masidi Manjun advised tour guides and resort operators to be responsible by ensuring tourists adhered to the do’s and don’ts while visiting the state.
“This is nothing new because we have reminded them (tourism players) countless times. I take this very seriously and anyone who is found to have been directly involved will have their license revoked.
“Perhaps we will look into implementing a declaration form soon particularly in Semporna for visitors to sign so they will behave appropriately,” he said.