Immigration Officers Nab 10 Foreigners at KL Bollywood Dance Spot
KUALA LUMPUR, 17 May 2025 – A late-night raid by the Immigration Department at an entertainment centre offering Bollywood-style dance shows in the heart of Kuala Lumpur has led to the arrest of 10 illegal immigrants.
The operation, dubbed Op Gegar, started around 12.45am and targeted a venue known for its South Asian clientele. According to Kuala Lumpur Immigration Director Wan Mohamed Saupee Wan Yusoff, the detainees — eight men and two women — were from Nepal, Bangladesh, and Pakistan, aged between their 20s and 40s.
“This place is very discreet and entry is strictly controlled. It mainly caters to South Asian customers who come to watch Bollywood-style dance performances,” said Wan Mohamed Saupee after the operation.
Authorities found a tip box with names of the dancers written on it. Customers would exchange real money for fake replica notes to “shower” the dancers as a form of appreciation during the show — a practice inspired by South Asian traditions.
“These performances may look like harmless entertainment, but they hide illegal employment and permit violations,” he added.
In a separate operation Op Selera, immigration officers also targeted three restaurants in Kuala Lumpur. A total of 25 foreigners were arrested, including two children. Those detained were from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Thailand, and Indonesia, ranging from 5 to 60 years old.
Many of them were found to be working without permits, had overstayed their visas, or were violating their immigration conditions. The offences fall under Section 6(1)(c) and Section 15(1)(c) of the Immigration Act 1959/63, as well as Regulation 39(b) of the Immigration Regulations 1963.
All individuals have been taken to the Bukit Jalil Immigration Depot for documentation and further investigation. — Bernama
