Semporna: The Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCOM) has detected foreign tourism operators using local nominees for the operation of resorts, including accommodations, in Semporna. Its commander, Datuk Victor Sanjos, revealed that these activities mainly involve operators among Chinese nationals investing in the area, which negatively impacts the country's economy and poses a security threat.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Datuk Victor Sanjos highlighted the potential risks associated with these improper methods. He stressed that they pose a threat to the safety of tourists, particularly foreign visitors, who might end up staying at unregistered resorts or homestays. The existence of such accommodations remains unknown to security forces, raising concerns about tourist safety in case of emergencies or incidents. Additionally, he mentioned the risk of these centers becoming hubs for scammers.

Victor Sanjos made these remarks to reporters after officiating the ESSCOM engagement session with operators of resorts and accommodations in Semporna. He further emphasized that there would be no compromise when taking action against tourism operators who facilitate unauthorized entry into neighboring countries, whether for tourists or fishermen.

The engagement session with ESSCOM aimed to enlighten the community on the importance of registering tourism centers operating illegally. Victor Sanjos noted that a few months earlier, ESSCOM, along with other enforcement agencies, conducted a joint operation targeting illegal resort operations, focusing on those without licenses and those involving foreign ownership by Chinese nationals.