SEREMBAN – A targeted enforcement operation by the Malaysian Immigration Department has led to the arrest of six individuals believed to be linked to a migrant smuggling network operating across Negeri Sembilan and Selangor.
The Special Operation, conducted on 7 May 2026, began in the late afternoon and involved officers from the Intelligence and Special Operations Division of Immigration Headquarters in Putrajaya.
Acting on intelligence and public tip-offs, enforcement teams moved into two separate locations in Seremban and Rawang.
Among those detained were three Indonesian men suspected of playing key roles in the syndicate. One was allegedly responsible for transporting migrants, while the other two were believed to be caretakers of a temporary shelter.
In addition, three other Indonesian nationals, one man and two women, were taken into custody as undocumented migrants awaiting smuggling arrangements.
Authorities seized several items during the operation, including three Indonesian passports, four mobile phones, and RM4,350 in cash thought to be proceeds from the illegal activity.
A Proton Perdana vehicle, believed to have been used to move migrants between locations, was also confiscated.
Investigations suggest the syndicate targeted Indonesians without valid travel documents or those who had overstayed their permits.
Migrants were allegedly moved to temporary shelters before being smuggled through unauthorised sea routes. Each individual was reportedly charged RM1,500 for passage.
The arrests were made under provisions of the Anti-Trafficking in Persons and Anti-Smuggling of Migrants (ATIPSOM) Act 2007.
The suspected transporter faces charges under Section 26J, while the shelter caretakers are being investigated under Section 26A. All detainees are currently under immigration custody for further questioning.
Officials emphasised that migrant smuggling remains a serious threat to national security and public order.
The Immigration Department reiterated its commitment to intensifying enforcement against syndicates exploiting vulnerable individuals.
This latest crackdown highlights ongoing efforts by Malaysian authorities to dismantle organised networks facilitating illegal entry and exit from the country.
The department has pledged to continue strengthening border security and safeguarding Malaysia’s sovereignty.
