KOTA KINABALU, March 8 -- The state government will not tolerate illegal cigarette sellers operating in areas under local authorities across Sabah, particularly those who behave aggressively or like gangsters.

State Assistant Minister of Local Government and Housing Datuk Fairuz Renddan said strict action would be taken to eradicate such activities and ensure they do not continue in any local council area.

"We will crack down, remove them all, and will not allow such gangster elements to set foot and sell their cigarettes that are clearly illegal in any local authority areas - not only in Sandakan, but throughout the state," he said in a statement.

Fairuz said a recent incident in Sandakan was unacceptable, adding that the ministry wou...