KUCHING – The Sarawak Immigration Department (JIM) has carried out two major operations, Ops Gegar and Ops Selera, around Kuching city, focusing on entertainment outlets and illegal online gambling activities.
The raids covered areas such as Premier 101, Matang, and Malihah, where enforcement teams moved in to check on suspicious activities.
Ops Gegar was conducted at two entertainment centers, with officers checking foreign workers employed there. At the same time, Ops Selera targeted several food outlets that were believed to be secretly running online gambling businesses behind their shopfronts.
The operation was personally attended by Director of the Immigration Enforcement Division, YBrs. Tuan Haji Basri bin Othman, together with Head of Kuching Immigration Enforcement, Tuan Yusdi bin Morshidi. Their presence showed the strong commitment of the Immigration Department in fighting illegal activities that threaten public safety and community well-being.
During the checks, 54 individuals were screened. Out of this number, 17 foreigners were arrested for suspected offences under the Immigration Act 1959/63. They have been taken into custody for further investigation, and strict legal action will follow.
The Sarawak Immigration Department stressed that operations like this will continue from time to time to ensure full compliance with the law. Authorities also warned that illegal activities such as gambling and unlawful foreign employment can cause serious harm to society if left unchecked.
JIM also reminded the public that anyone found involved in illegal businesses, whether as an organizer or worker, will face firm legal action. The department encouraged the community to come forward and provide information on suspicious activities to help protect national security and maintain peace. – JIM Sarawak