MIRI – A total of 31 individuals were arrested during a series of enforcement operations carried out by the Miri Immigration Enforcement Unit under the names Ops Sapu, Ops Mahir, Ops Belanja, and Ops Selera.
The large-scale operation, conducted across five different locations in Miri town, involved 14 immigration officers. According to the Immigration Department, a total of 39 individuals were inspected throughout the raids. Out of that number, 25 men and five women were detained for immigration-related offences.
In addition, one employer was also arrested on suspicion of hiring undocumented foreign workers without proper permits. Authorities confirmed that all arrests were made in accordance with the Immigration Act 1959/63 and the Immigration Regulations 1963.
Those arrested face charges under Section 6(1)(c) for not possessing valid travel documents, Section 15(1)(c) for overstaying, and Regulation 39(b) for breaching the conditions of their passes. Meanwhile, the employer is being investigated under Section 55B of the Immigration Act 1959/63, which carries penalties for employing individuals without valid permits.
The Sarawak Immigration Department (JIM) emphasised that such enforcement actions are part of continuous efforts to uphold law and order, while ensuring the safety and well-being of local communities. The department also called on the public to provide information related to illegal immigrants (PATI) through its official communication channels.
“Enforcement operations will be strengthened from time to time. We encourage the public to cooperate by reporting any suspicious activities so that we can ensure community safety and social harmony,” JIM said in a statement.
This operation reflects the ongoing commitment of immigration authorities in curbing illegal entry, overstaying, and unlawful employment in Sarawak. – JIM Sarawak
