KUCHING: The Sarawak Immigration Department detained more than 50 foreign nationals during a sweeping two-day enforcement operation aimed at curbing immigration and employment offences in the city.
Carried out by the Kuching Immigration Enforcement Division, 28 officers launched coordinated inspections at locations identified as high-risk for violations from Feb 2 to 3.
A total of 19 locations were inspected, including food and beverage outlets at Metrocity Commercial Centre and MJC Commercial Centre in Batu Kawa, both known for high commercial activity.
Enforcement teams also conducted checks at premises around Batu 7 along the Kuching–Serian Road to ensure employers were complying with regulations governing the hiring of foreign workers.
The operation was later extended to a construction site in Kampung Stakan Melayu, as officers broadened their checks beyond commercial premises.
A total of 57 individuals of various nationalities were detained and taken to the immigration office for further investigations.
The department said efforts are being carried out to determine the validity of their travel documents and work permits in accordance with existing laws.
Such operations will be intensified as part of ongoing efforts to address the presence of foreign nationals who fail to comply with immigration procedures in and around Kuching.
