No change in Sabah stand-off amid reports of imminent attack

TANJUNG LABIAN (LAHAD DATU) – The ongoing Sulu stand-off in this Sabah east coast district remains unchanged for the third week on Thursday.

Numerous reports have emerged of an imminent attack by security forces on the group. One report claimed that several soldiers came close to Kampung Tanduo where the followers of the Sulu Sultanate are holed up.

A heavy presence of security personnel was observed at various strategic locations surrounding the seaside village late Wednesday.

Sabah police also declined to comment if shots were fired in the area on Wednesday evening although nearby villagers claimed to have heard them.

Sulu group leader Rajah Muda Azzimudie Kiram told Philippines media that his men had fired warning shots after spotting what he claimed were six Malaysian security personnel entering the village.

While claiming to come to Sabah in peace, Azzimudie warned that his followers were willing to “fight to the death” if provoked.