Foreign Desk: In a daring late-night operation on Friday, Malaysian authorities apprehended 40 illegal immigrants, including 3 Bangladeshis, as they attempted to escape through a river near the city of Dengkil.
The incident unfolded as the residents of Dengkil were deep in their slumber, unaware of the unfolding drama just a stone’s throw away. Concurrently, the Immigration Division of Malaysia, under the operation code-named “Sapu,” initiated a crackdown near the city.
Despite the presence of law enforcement personnel, some of the undocumented workers tried to evade capture by jumping into the river, but their escape plans were thwarted.
Police Foil River Escape Attempt; 40 Individuals Detained
Date: September 16, 2023 Location: Dengkil, Malaysia
During the operation, members of the Immigration Enforcement Division apprehended several individuals, including three Bangladeshis and 37 Indonesians.
Among the detained Indonesians, there were 18 males and 14 females, including three boys and two girls. On this matter, Ruslin Jusoh, the Director-General of the Immigration Division, informed local journalists.
Ruslin Jusoh stated in a press release that the operation was launched based on local and intelligence information.
The crackdown aimed to verify the documents of 40 illegal immigrants and apprehend those involved in various offenses under the Immigration Act 1969/1963, the Passport Act 1966, and the Immigration Regulations 1963.
Simultaneously, the Immigration Division is intensifying efforts to apprehend undocumented individuals residing in Malaysia without proper documentation. Various regions are actively participating in this initiative.
In response to these developments, Hushiarie Hushairi, Director of Immigration, emphasized that the department would not engage with illegal immigrants or those involved in passport misuse and unlawful activities.
Stringent measures will be taken against anyone offering employment or shelter to illegal immigrants.
As Malaysia continues its efforts to curb illegal immigration and enforce immigration regulations, it remains steadfast in upholding the rule of law within its borders.
Stay tuned for further updates on this ongoing operation as authorities work to maintain the integrity of Malaysia’s immigration system.