MIRI: Malaysian immigration authorities detained 76 undocumented foreign nationals following a two-day integrated enforcement operations across Miri, underscoring a stepped up crackdown on immigration offences in the northern part the state.
The operations, mounted by the Immigration Enforcement Unit of the Miri Division, was carried out between February 5 and the early hours of February 6 after authorities acted on public intelligence.
A total of 30 enforcement officers were deployed in coordinated raids across multiple locations identified as suspected hotspots for illegal migrants.
Seventeen premises were inspected, including construction sites, food outlets, rented rooms and private residences.
Officers conducted thorough checks to verify immigration status and compliance with national immigration laws.
A total of 185 individuals were screened during the operations.
Of that number, 76 foreign nationals were arrested, comprising 66 Indonesians and 10 Filipinos.
All are suspected of offences under Section 6(1)(c) and Section 15(1)(c) of the Immigration Act 1959/63, which relate to unlawful entry, overstaying and failure to possess valid travel or work documents.
Authorities also detained one Malaysian national believed to be an employer linked to some of the undocumented workers, highlighting continued enforcement against locals who facilitate or benefit from illegal employment practices.
All detainees were taken to the Immigration Depot for further investigation and legal processing in accordance with established procedures.
The operations concluded at approximately 6.00 am on Thursday.
In a statement, the Immigration Department said such enforcement exercises would continue nationwide, warning that firm action would be taken against undocumented migrants and those who employ or harbour them.
The department stressed that sustained enforcement is critical to safeguarding national security, public order and the integrity of Malaysia’s immigration system.
