KUCHING – Fifteen foreign nationals have been taken into custody following a targeted enforcement operation conducted by the Immigration Department of Malaysia (JIM) in Sarawak.
The sweep, known as Ops Sapu, was carried out by the Enforcement Division of JIM Kuching over a twelve-hour period spanning the night of 17 July and the early morning of 18 July 2026.
The operation commenced at 9.00 pm and concluded at 6.00 am, focusing on areas where illegal immigration activities were suspected.
Authorities acted on specific intelligence reports and complaints lodged by members of the public, which helped guide enforcement teams to key locations.
This collaborative approach between the community and law enforcement agencies highlights the importance of public vigilance in maintaining border security and legal compliance.
Inspections were conducted at four distinct sites across the districts of Simunjan, Samarahan, and Serian. The locations selected for the raid included shared residential houses, as well as accommodation facilities for workers situated at construction sites, plantations, and oil palm nurseries.
These areas are often monitored due to their potential for harbouring undocumented individuals or those violating visa conditions.
During the course of the operation, enforcement officers inspected a total of twenty-eight Persons Under Inspection (OYDP). After thorough checks and verification of documents, fifteen of these individuals were detained.
The arrests were made on suspicion of committing offences under Section 15(1)(c) and Section 6(1)(c) of the Immigration Act 1959/63 (Act 155).
These sections typically relate to entering Malaysia without valid travel documents or overstaying permitted periods, among other infractions.
All detained individuals were subsequently transported to the Immigration Detention Depot. There, they will undergo further investigation and processing in strict accordance with existing legal provisions.
The department has emphasised that all actions taken are within the framework of the law, ensuring due process is followed while addressing breaches of immigration regulations.
The Sarawak Immigration Department has stated that it will continue to intensify its enforcement efforts. The primary goal of these ongoing operations is to combat violations of immigration laws effectively.
By maintaining a strong presence and conducting regular sweeps, authorities aim to deter illegal activities and ensure that the state’s immigration systems remain robust and secure.
Employers and the wider community are reminded of their responsibility to comply with established regulations.
Hiring undocumented workers or providing accommodation to individuals without legal status can result in severe penalties.
The department urges business owners, particularly in sectors reliant on foreign labour such as agriculture and construction, to verify the legal status of their employees regularly.
Public cooperation remains a cornerstone of successful enforcement. Citizens are encouraged to report any suspicious activities related to illegal immigration.
Providing timely and accurate information assists enforcement teams in planning and executing operations more effectively.
This collective effort is vital for safeguarding national security and preserving the sovereignty of the country.
The recent operation in Simunjan, Samarahan, and Serian serves as a clear message that authorities are actively monitoring high-risk areas.
It also demonstrates the capability of the Immigration Department to respond swiftly to intelligence and public concerns.
As Sarawak continues to develop, maintaining orderly and legal migration processes is essential for social stability and economic integrity.
Further details regarding the identities of the detainees or their countries of origin have not been released at this stage, as investigations are ongoing.
The department will take appropriate action against those found guilty of violating immigration laws, which may include deportation and bans on re-entry.
This latest crackdown reinforces the government’s zero-tolerance stance on illegal immigration. It also highlights the continuous need for vigilance among both employers and residents.
By adhering to the law and reporting irregularities, the community plays a crucial role in supporting national security efforts.
