Immigration Dept nab 16 undocumented foreigners in Keningau

KENINGAU (Jan 23): Sixteen illegal immigrants were detained by the Immigration Department in an integrated operation here on Wednesday.

Sabah Immigration Department director Datuk SH Sitti Saleha Habib Yussof said the operation was mounted following public complaints and also surveillance over several hotspot areas.

“A total of 22 people were rounded up for inspection, which led to the arrest of 16 over failure to provide legal documents to be in the state,” she said in a statement.

Sitti Saleha said all 16 would be investigated under Section 6(1)(c) of the Immigration Act 1959/63 and Regulation 39(b) of the Immigration Regulations 1963.

She added that similar operations would be carried out from time to time to combat the influx of illegal immigrants in the state.

“The presence of foreigners without documents is not only a violation of the law, but can also affect aspects of security and public order.

“We will also take strict action against any individual or party who protects, employs or provides protection to illegal immigrants.

“Employers or premises owners found to be abetting will face legal action,” she added.