KUDAT — A total of 12 Filipino illegal immigrants were detained by the Sabah Immigration Department (JIM) during a special operation conducted around the Matunggong district in Kudat on Wednesday.
Sabah Immigration Director Datuk Sh Sitti Saleha Habib Yussof said the operation, which took place on 1 October 2025, involved 13 enforcement officers from the Kudat Immigration Division. The coordinated move was aimed at curbing the increasing presence of undocumented foreigners in the area.
According to Datuk Sitti Saleha, 39 individuals were inspected, and 12 were found to be illegal immigrants who failed to produce valid travel documents or passes. All of them were identified as Filipino nationals.
“Those detained are being investigated under Section 15(1)(c) and Section 6(1)(c) of the Immigration Act 1959/63, as well as Regulation 39(b) of the Immigration Regulations 1963,” she said in a statement.
She also reminded that the department would not compromise with any individuals or employers found harbouring or hiring illegal immigrants. The department continues to tighten enforcement to ensure that communities remain safe and secure.
“We urge the public to cooperate and share information regarding the presence of undocumented migrants in their areas. Enforcement will continue to be strengthened, and stern action will be taken against those who break the law,” she added.
The Immigration Department has intensified its operations across Sabah, particularly in coastal districts such as Kudat, Sandakan, and Lahad Datu, to curb cross-border infiltration.
These consistent operations are part of JIM Sabah’s ongoing efforts to uphold the rule of law and safeguard the welfare of local residents, especially in areas with high migrant activity.