KUCHING: A coordinated citywide enforcement sweep by immigration authorities led to the detention of 36 foreigners after rented rooms and commercial areas across Kuching were inspected.
The two-day operation, carried out on Dec 29 and 30, saw 19 officers from the Sarawak Immigration Department deployed across the city under ‘Ops Gegar’, ‘Ops Sapu’ and ‘Ops Selera’.
Enforcement teams focused on rented accommodations suspected of housing foreigners living or working illegally, adopting a targeted approach aimed at curbing illegal stay and employment.
Premises inspected included Kubah Ria Commercial Centre, Lee Ling Commercial Centre, Batu 5 along Jalan Matang, Batu Kawa Commercial Centre, business areas along Jalan Pending, as well as several locations in Gita area.
At the conclusion of the operation, a total of 36 individuals were taken into custody for various offences under the Immigration Act 1959/63.
The department said the operation reflects an ongoing commitment to firm and consistent enforcement, adding that similar actions will be carried out regularly to uphold immigration laws, maintain public order and safeguard national security.
