KOTA KINABALU: The Eastern Sabah Security Command (Esscom) is collaborating with other security agencies, including the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA), in efforts to track down the group that shot two MMEA personnel this morning.
Esscom Commander Datuk Victor Sanjos said the cooperation includes operations to track down the group.
"Esscom, MMEA and the police are collaborating on investigations, including identifying the group that was stated in the media statement by MMEA.
"So far, we are conducting investigations and gathering information before further action is taken," he said when contacted today.
When asked about a possibility of the suspects being smugglers or kidnappers for ransom, Victor said they have not been able to identify the suspects yet.
"I understand the incident happened very quickly, and the suspects could not be confirmed.
"What we are doing is gathering information about the incident, and we will provide updates from time to time," he said.
Two MMEA personnel were injured by gunmen in the waters off Kunak this morning.
The two are Zainal Abad Komel, 45, who is also the captain of an MMEA vessel, and Leading Rate Prayrie De Cuella Jimin, 35.
Zainal was injured in the left eye, and De Cuella Jimin sustained injuries in both hands from gunfire. Both are receiving treatment at Kunak Hospital.