KUCHING: Ninety-four undocumented migrants were arrested in a large-scale operation held around Pending and Demak industrial areas on Wednesday.
Sarawak Immigration Department Director, Abdul Halim Abang Naili, said the targeted raids, codenamed ‘Ops Gempur’, was part of the department’s continued efforts to combat the rising number of illegal migrants in the state.
The operation, which began at 10:30 am, involved 33 enforcement officers from the Kuching Immigration Enforcement Division, and was carried out based on intelligence gathered over time.
“A total of 157 individuals, including 13 Malaysians, were inspected for their documentations at five factories around Pending and Demak industrial areas.
“Of the figure, 94 were taken into custody as they were found without valid travel documents and had overstayed their permits.
“In addition, seven summonses were also issued to Malaysians to assist with ongoing investigation,” he said in a statement.
The detainees, comprising 80 Indonesian men, 11 Indonesian women, and three Bangladeshi men, have since been sent to the Semuja Immigration Detention Depot for documentation, investigation, and further action under the Immigration Act 1959/63.
Abdul Halim said the operation, led by Deputy Director of Immigration (Control), Norhafiza Junaidi, also served as a stern warning to employers who continue to hire undocumented foreign workers, especially in the manufacturing sector.
“The department will not compromise with any party found violating immigration laws.
“Employers who take shortcuts by hiring workers without legal approval, will face firm actions,” he said.
He also urged the public to assist in the department’s efforts by reporting the presence of undocumented migrants or any suspicious activities through official channels.
