KUCHING: Eighteen illegal aliens have ended up in custody after attempting to flee during a large-scale immigration enforcement operation across several parts of the city yesterday (May 16).
Codenamed ‘Ops Selera’, the Kuching Immigration Enforcement Division conducted simultaneous raids at Taman Sukma, Kampung Semerah Padi, Tabuan, Mile 10 town, and a food court at Mile 4.
The premises were suspected of employing foreigners without valid passes or work permits, as well as providing shelter to illegal immigrants.
The Sarawak Immigration Department said several of the foreigners attempted to flee upon noticing the presence of enforcement officers.
However, swift action by the raiding team led to all individuals being successfully apprehended for further investigation.
The department said enforcement operations would continue to be intensified to detect and curb offences under the Immigration Act 1959/63.
It also includes action against employers and individuals found harbouring or hiring illegal immigrants.
