By Aida Aziz Photo: JIM
MANJUNG: In a targeted operation named “Ops Sapu, Selera, Kutip and Belanja,” executed by the Malaysian Immigration Department (JIM) in Perak, a total of 90 foreign nationals found themselves apprehended. The operation, spearheaded by 31 immigration officers from the Perak JIM Enforcement Division, unfolded across business and residential sectors of Manjung district.
Hapdzan Husaini, the Director of JIM in Perak, shed light on the meticulously executed operation. Carried out on August 11, between 6:30 pm and 12:30 pm, the crackdown encompassed a comprehensive check of 104 individuals hailing from Bangladesh, Pakistan, Nepal, India, Indonesia, and Myanmar.
“When the enforcement team arrived at the arrest site, a meticulous combing and inspection of foreigners ensued,” Hapdzan reported during a press briefing on Sunday. He recounted how certain individuals attempted to evade inspection by resorting to desperate measures such as fleeing, climbing rooftops, and hiding behind doors. A few even resorted to bumping into the officers in their desperate escape attempts.
However, Hapdzan emphasized that the unyielding efficiency and unwavering commitment of the operatives ensured the thwarting of any escape endeavors.
The operation culminated in the apprehension of 90 foreign nationals, including 14 Bangladeshi men, 1 Pakistani man, 2 Nepalese men, 1 Indian man, 1 Indian woman, 1 Indonesian woman, 44 men, 21 women, 1 boy, and 4 Myanmar girls. The age spectrum of those apprehended ranged from 1 to 50 years old.
Hapdzan outlined the gravity of the offenses committed by these individuals. They were arrested and detained for suspected violations of Section 6(1)(c) of the Immigration Act 1959/63, which pertains to not possessing valid travel documents, Section 15(1)(c) which involves overstaying, and Rule 39(b) of the Immigration Regulations 1963 concerning violations of the terms of the Visit Pass by engaging in illegal work.
Furthermore, investigations will extend to potential violations of the Anti-Trafficking in Persons and Anti-Smuggling of Migrants Act 2007, as well as the Passport Act 1966. Hapdzan underscored that thorough investigations will ensue not only for the apprehended individuals but also for residential and business premise owners who harbor illegal immigrants.
This meticulously executed operation underscores the commitment of the Malaysian Immigration Department to maintain order and uphold the rule of law within its borders.
