KUALA LUMPUR — The Malaysian Immigration Department has once again sent a clear warning that it will not tolerate illegal stay and misuse of passes in the country, following a late-night enforcement operation along Jalan Klang Lama on December 15.
The raid was carried out at 9.40pm in an area identified as a hotspot for undocumented foreigners. According to the Immigration Department, the operation was conducted after two weeks of intelligence gathering by the Enforcement Division of its Putrajaya headquarters. The action was also based on repeated public complaints about foreign nationals gathering and operating businesses late into the night.
During the operation, officers inspected a total of 131 individuals. This group included 82 foreign men, 34 foreign women, and 15 local citizens. After checks were conducted, 90 foreign nationals aged between 21 and 35 were detained for various immigration offences.
Those detained came from several countries, including Nigeria, Yemen, Syria, Somalia, Guinea-Bissau, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Mali, Indonesia, Myanmar, Bangladesh, Vietnam, Thailand, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and India. Immigration officials confirmed that among the main offences detected were overstaying and failure to produce valid travel documents.
Investigations revealed that some of the foreigners were using expired visit passes as a cover to operate small businesses. These activities were often carried out in open areas such as car parks and in busy locations like eateries and restaurants. Authorities said such premises were later turned into gathering and entertainment spots that operated until late at night.
In connection with the case, the Immigration Department also issued a witness summons, known as Form 29, to the restaurant owner at the location to assist with further investigations. The department stressed that business owners who employ or protect undocumented foreigners will not be spared from action.
All detained foreign nationals were arrested under Section 51(5)(b) of the Immigration Act 1959/63. They were subsequently sent to the KLIA Immigration Detention Depot for further investigation and legal action.
The Immigration Department reiterated that it will not compromise with any foreigner who enters or remains in Malaysia illegally, overstays, or abuses the conditions of their pass. It also warned that strict action will be taken against individuals or employers who harbour or provide protection to undocumented migrants.
The department added that enforcement operations will continue nationwide to safeguard national security, public order, and the rule of law, while encouraging the public to continue providing information on illegal immigration activities.
