6,200 illegal immigrants arrested in Malaysia

The country's immigration department has taken a tough stance against illegal immigration and permit fraud across Malaysia. Since January 1 this year, 6,200 illegal immigrants and 230 employers have been arrested in 80 raids. 

Those concerned say that no leniency will be given to those who break the law.

Immigration Deputy Director General Lokman Afendi Ramli said that a total of 27,000 foreign nationals have been searched across the country during this period. These searches and arrests have been carried out in about 1,700 separate operations in the country since January 1. The majority of those arrested are citizens of Myanmar, Indonesia, Bangladesh, and China.

He clearly stated that strict action will be taken against those who are staying in the country without valid documents or violating the conditions of their permits. Similarly, employers who hire illegal workers are not outside the purview of the law.

Another 51 illegal immigrants were arrested during an 'Ops Celera' operation conducted at commercial centres in the Sungai Long area of ​​Kajang, Selangor state, on Thursday (February 14) night. The operation, which began at 6:50 pm, involved 225 foreigners and 238 locals. After the screening, 51 people were immediately arrested for violating the law.