LAHAD DATU: Japanese officials paid a visit to the Eastern Sabah Security Command (Esscom) here today to get a clear picture of the current security situation particularly in connection with cross-border crime in Sabah’s east coast. Japanese Violence Prevention Unit director general Shigenobu Fukumoto headed the entourage, which comprised Japanese Cabinet Secretariats Junya Tanaka and Shiro Utaka, as well as secretary of the Japanese ambassador to Malaysia Yuta Maeda. They were welcomed by Esscom Operations Centre chief of staff, Brigadier General Datuk Md Rahim Mohamad and other senior officers. During the visit, the Japanese delegation was briefed on Esscom’s operating concept in the Eastern Sabah Safety Zone (Esszone), current security threats, and strategic measures taken by the authorities in curbing issues, including abduction. In a brief speech, Rahim said Esscom is taking necessary measures including enhancing intelligence and tightening security control in areas believed to be travel routes for cross-border criminals. “The security forces are committed to continuously improving the safety level of Sabah’s east coast via various measures and a holistic approach, including requiring fishing and commercial vessel operators to install the Automated Identification System (AIS) device. “At the same time, we will continue to develop better strategies and methods to safeguard the state’s sovereignty and security.” Early this month, Sabah police commissioner Datuk Abdul Rashid Harun ordered all boat operators to install the AIS device following a series of kidnappings where kidnap-for-ransom groups had targeted slow-moving vessels to abduct crew members. The device allows security forces to monitor and track movement of ships as well as provide immediate assistance during emergencies. Meanwhile, Fukumoto expressed his satisfaction with the measures and approaches taken by Esscom in tackling cross-border crime. “Esscom is doing its job to boost security and I believe the safety of foreign tourists, especially those from Japan who want to visit Sabah, will be guaranteed.”