Foreign national detained in Miri for allegedly soliciting donations illegally

MIRI (Feb 5): Immigration Department officers detained a foreign national in the city centre here on Wednesday for allegedly soliciting donations from the public without authorisation.

In a Facebook post, the department said the operation was launched after members of the public shared photographs and information on social media about the individual’s activities.

“The suspect was found to be soliciting donations from members of the public without proper authorisation. Cash totalling RM194 was seized from his possession as evidence,” it said.

Preliminary findings revealed that the suspect had misused his still-valid social visit pass by engaging in activities not permitted under its conditions.

The department stressed that social visit pass holders are only allowed to remain in the country for tourism or short visits, and collecting donations without authorisation constitutes an offence.

The case is being investigated under Section 8(3)(g) of the Immigration Act 1959/63 and Regulation 39(b) of the Immigration Regulations 1963.

“Stern action will be taken against any individual found to be misusing their social visit pass.

“The public is also urged to continue providing information on suspicious activities, as community cooperation is vital in curbing foreign national misconduct and ensuring that Miri remains safe for all,” said the department.