MIRI – Six foreign nationals were detained during an enforcement operation known as Ops Gegar carried out by the Malaysian Immigration Department (JIM) Sarawak at a reflexology centre in Miri on 24 April 2026. The operation was conducted following intelligence on suspected immigration offences at the premises.
The raid took place between 10.05pm and 10.35pm and involved 16 enforcement officers. The team consisted of nine members from the Special Action Team (PTK) and seven officers from JIM Sarikei. The coordinated operation was aimed at detecting and preventing immigration violations in the area.
According to authorities, initial checks at the premises revealed that the employer was suspected of hiring and sheltering foreign workers without valid travel or work documents. This raised concerns of possible violations under Malaysia’s immigration laws.
Further investigation during the operation led to the detention of six foreign nationals for various offences. Out of the six, four individuals were suspected of using fake work permits and social visit passes. The group included two Chinese women, one Filipino man, and one Indonesian woman.
In addition, two Indonesian nationals, believed to be a married couple, were also detained after it was found that they had overstayed in Malaysia since 2022. All six individuals were immediately taken to the Miri Immigration Office for further investigation and legal action.
Authorities stressed that such operations are part of ongoing efforts to strengthen immigration enforcement in Sarawak. The Immigration Department has made it clear that it will continue to carry out similar operations from time to time to ensure compliance with Malaysian immigration laws.
Officials also warned employers and business operators against hiring or protecting undocumented foreigners. They stated that strict action will be taken against those who violate the law, as such offences can affect national security and public order.
Ops Gegar reflects the department’s continued commitment to addressing illegal employment and immigration abuse in the state. Enforcement agencies have urged the public to cooperate by reporting any suspicious activities involving foreign workers without valid documents.
The case is now under further investigation, and appropriate legal action will be taken against all those involved in accordance with existing immigration regulations.
