KLANG – The Malaysian Immigration Department (JIM) has dismantled a syndicate allegedly involved in dismantling and selling used vehicle components and stolen vehicles during an operation in Jalan Kapar, Klang, Selangor.
The operation was conducted at about 4.30pm on 12 August, following information received by the department regarding the group’s activities. JIM said the syndicate was allegedly led by Pakistani nationals and involved foreigners in organised criminal activities.
A total of 24 immigration officers took part in the enforcement operation, resulting in the arrest of 20 foreigners at the location.
Those detained comprised 17 Pakistani men, two Indonesian men and one Indonesian woman. The department said initial investigations indicated that the group may have been involved in activities beyond the dismantling and sale of vehicle components.
Investigators also found indications linking the syndicate to the recent disappearance of a multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) belonging to a funeral management company in Kapar.
JIM said the arrests of the three Indonesian nationals also uncovered information about an alleged shelter-house operation for illegal immigrants awaiting deportation to their respective countries.
According to the department, the shelter service was allegedly offered at between RM5,000 and RM10,000 per person.
The discovery has widened the scope of the investigation, with authorities looking into whether the premises and network were being used to facilitate the movement or concealment of undocumented foreigners.
JIM said it takes a serious view of the involvement of foreign nationals in organised criminal activities, particularly where such activities could have implications for public safety and order.
The department said the latest operation was carried out as part of efforts to strengthen cooperation with other enforcement agencies and identify foreign nationals and networks involved in unlawful activities.
All 20 individuals arrested have been placed at an Immigration Depot while investigations continue.
JIM said the detainees are being investigated under several laws, including the Immigration Act 1959/63, Passport Act 1966 and Immigration Regulations 1963.
Investigations are also being conducted under the Anti-Trafficking in Persons and Smuggling of Migrants Act 2007 (ATIPSOM), depending on the findings involving the alleged shelter-house activities.
The department said enforcement action would also be taken against individuals or parties found to have protected, employed or assisted foreigners who do not possess valid documentation.
JIM added that enforcement operations would continue nationwide as part of its efforts to address violations involving undocumented foreigners and protect national security and sovereignty.
The department’s latest action also highlights the broader enforcement focus on networks that allegedly combine illegal employment, accommodation and other unlawful activities involving foreign nationals.
Further investigations are expected to determine the full extent of the syndicate’s operations and whether additional individuals or parties were involved.
