KUCHING: Twenty-four foreigners were detained during an immigration crackdown targeting heavy machinery workshops, eateries, suspected online gambling premises and scrap metal businesses in Kuching and Kota Samarahan on Friday (Jul 10).
The operations, carried out by the Sarawak Immigration Department (JIM) between 9 am and 3 pm, covered seven locations following public complaints and intelligence gathered by its enforcement division.
They said among the premises inspected were heavy machinery workshops in Kampung Semeba and Kampung Sudat in Kuching, as well as eateries and premises suspected of operating online gambling activities in Muara Tuang, Kota Samarahan.
“Enforcement officers also inspected several scrap metal and second-hand goods premises in Kota Samarahan to ensure compliance with the country’s immigration laws.
“Those detained were suspected of committing offences under Section 6(1)(c) and Section 15(1)(c) of the Immigration Act 1959/63.
“A witness summons was also issued to assist in the department’s ongoing investigation,” the department said.
The operations, dubbed Ops Minyak, Ops Selera and Ops Mahir, was aimed at detecting immigration offences at the targeted premises.
JIM said enforcement operations would continue from time to time to curb immigration offences and maintain public safety and order.
It also urged the public to channel information on the presence of illegal immigrants or other unlawful activities to assist enforcement efforts.
