BAU: Six people, including two locals, were arrested after police intercepted their vehicle during a special operation targeting the alleged smuggling of undocumented migrants into Sarawak yesterday (Aug 3).
The arrests were made during ‘Ops Pintas’, conducted by the district Criminal Investigation Division (CID) at KM6, Jalan Bau-Serikin, at around 10.10am.
Bau police chief Supt Mohd Haide A. Rahman said those detained comprised a 34-year-old local man, a local woman and four Indonesians, who were travelling in a Perodua Alza.
“Initial investigations found that the local man, believed to be the driver, allegedly received payment to ferry undocumented migrants to destinations around Kuching and Sematan.
“Police also discovered that the Indonesians had allegedly entered Malaysia through illegal routes with the assistance of individuals who arranged their journey from Indonesia into Sarawak
“The undocumented migrants are believed to have entered the state in search of work without valid travel documents,” he said.
Police seized the Perodua Alza, several phones and an Indonesian passport to assist in the investigation.
The case is being investigated under Section 26J of the Anti-Trafficking in Persons and Anti-Smuggling of Migrants Act 2007 (ATIPSOM), which carries a penalty of up to five years’ imprisonment, a fine of up to RM250,000, or both, upon conviction.
The case is also being probed under Section 6(1)(c) of the Immigration Act 1959/63.
Mohd Haide said investigations are underway to identify the syndicate behind the operation, including those believed to have coordinated the illegal entry of undocumented migrants into the country.
Police would continue to take firm action against anyone involved in human trafficking and the smuggling of undocumented migrants.
Members of the public with information on such activities are urged to come forward and report them to authorities for prompt action.
