74 foreigners were detained in the immigration operation in Kuching

KUCHING, 16 Oct: A total of 74 foreign nationals have been detained by the Malaysian Immigration Department (JIM Sarawak) through Ops Mahir and Ops Sapu conducted at eight locations around Kuching from yesterday to today.

The operation involved 30 officers and law enforcement personnel conducting searches of several residential premises, terraces and rental rooms suspected of housing foreign nationals violating immigration laws.

According to the statement of JIM Sarawak, out of 79 individuals examined, 74 were arrested, consisting of 45 men and 29 women.

"They included 63 Indonesians, 10 Chinese and one Cambodian. The operation also saw the production of two Form 29.

"Among the offences identified are violations of Section 6 ((1))) and Section 15 ((1) ((c) of the Immigration Act 1959/63 as well as related provisions under the Immigration Regulations 1963", the statement said.

In addition, two premises are also suspected of engaging in online fraud or online scams.

Several computers and cell phones were also seized to assist with further investigation into the activity.

JIM Sarawak will continue its enforcement operations to ensure immigration laws are complied with and curb the presence and activities of illegal foreign nationals.

The public is also invited to provide information about suspicious activity to the authorities in order to maintain national security and order. -TVS