In a Facebook post today, Tiong expressed “disappointment” over the failure of joint action by the council and police to crack down on these agencies, and asked if such efforts were “just for show”.
He said the failure of a recent operation had led to public concern and suspicion over the possible reasons for its ineffectiveness.
Suggesting the reasons could include shortcomings due to unforeseen circumstances, he raised the possibility of “deeper issues at play, such as illegal dealings, bribery or tip-offs”.
Tiong said while he was grateful for the joint operation on Nov 6, public feedback seemed to suggest it was ineffective.
“By the time enforcement teams arrived, the culprits had already cleared out, making the joint action a complete failure,” he said.
“Could it be that information about the crackdown had been leaked, or was the operation merely for show?”
He claimed there had been complaints of possible collusion, where people with knowledge of the raids had tipped off the foreign nationals.
Tiong had announced last week that he would chair a task force to look into the abuse of tourist visas by foreigners to open businesses in Semporna.
He told the Dewan Rakyat that the task force would include the police, immigration department, marine department and local authorities.
He was responding to concerns raised by Semporna MP Shafie Apdal about Chinese nationals opening businesses in his constituency, which is known for its dive resorts.
“The Semporna MP has raised this matter with me several times and the ministry has told the immigration office to take immediate action,” he said.
Sin Chew Daily reported last month that Shafie had urged the Sabah government to act against Chinese nationals operating restaurants, leasing boats and offering transport services to Chinese tourists. - FMT
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