LABUAN – The Labuan Immigration Department (Jabatan Imigresen Malaysia, JIM) successfully detained 15 illegal immigrants in an early morning enforcement operation, strengthening efforts to curb unlawful entry and stay on the island.
According to Labuan JIM Director, Raymond Entalai, the individuals were arrested on suspicion of committing offences under Section 6(1)(c) of the Immigration Act 1959/63 (Act 155).
Those detained comprised 14 Filipino nationals and one Indonesian, with ages ranging from as young as one year old to 39 years old. All of them were taken to the Labuan JIM office for further documentation, verification of their identities, and investigation.
The enforcement team also issued summon notices to witnesses linked to the case for further assistance in investigations.
Raymond explained that the operation was the result of information gathering and intelligence work by the Labuan JIM Enforcement Division’s Intelligence and Operations Complaints Unit.
“In the operation, a total of 38 individuals were checked, and 15 were found to have committed immigration offences. The department will continue carrying out regular enforcement to ensure Labuan is not used as a safe haven for undocumented migrants,” he said in a statement.
He further stressed that JIM remains committed to taking firm and consistent action against any parties who violate the country’s immigration laws.
Labuan, being a duty-free island and a hub for economic activity, has long been a destination for foreign workers. However, authorities continue to remind employers and individuals that harbouring or employing illegal immigrants is an offence punishable by law.
The latest arrests highlight the department’s ongoing commitment to safeguarding national security and public order by preventing unlawful entry and residency. – JIM Labuan