MALAYSIAN EMBASSY STOPS OPERATION

LAHAD DATU : Security forces have launched an attack on the intruders in Kampung Tanduo, Felda Sahabat here this morning.

12.45pm: The Malaysian embassy in the Philippines has suspended its operations from today as several groups protested in front of the building in Makati

12.30pm: Minister in the Prime Minister's  Department, Datuk Seri Nazri Aziz said Malaysia is not at war with the Philippines government as the intruders are not recognised by the Philippine government. He said If they are detained,  they will face criminal charges including for murder.

11.10am: Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Ismail Omar said the attack on the intruders is on-going and there is an exchange of fire between security forces and the culprits. However, as of now, no casualties were reported on the Malaysian side.

10.00am: Six vessels, two each from the Navy, marine police and Malaysia Maritime Enforcement Agency were earlier seen leaving the marine police jetty

9.15am:  Three fighter jets bombed Kampung Tanduo before troops went in

8.58am: The Lahad Datu district hospital has also been put on alert.

Police personnel have cordoned off the emergency area in the hospital in preparation for casualties.

8.49am: In Kampung E, located closest to Kampung Tanduo where the armed intruders are hiding said they were jolted by loud sound of explosiions that caused thin windows to shatter.

Glass doors at the media centre here, some 5km away shook several times from 7am.

8.25am: Villagers fled from the area as several exploisions were heard.

Fighter jets and helicopters are also seen.

7.30am: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak issued a statement announcing the attack on intruders (NST)