By Lian Cheng
KUCHING, Feb 2: An employer was found guilty of harbouring 45 illegal immigrants and fined RM225,000 for the offence.
According to a statement from the Sarawak Disaster Management Committee (SDMC), the employer was charged in Sibu Sessions Court under Section 55E(1) of the Immigration Act 1959/63.
He was found guilty of harbouring 45 illegal immigrants who were arrested on his premises.
Upon conviction, the Act provides for a RM5,000 fine or three-month imprisonment for each illegal immigrant engaged.
The employer pleaded guilty and was sentenced to a total fine of RM225,000.
Meanwhile, across Sarawak, the police issued 10 compounds for non-compliance with the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) under the Conditional Movement Control Order (CMCO).
Five compounds were issued in Miri, three in Samarahan District and two in Kuching District.
Apart from the police, local councils across Sarawak also played their part in monitoring SOP compliance in business establishments.
A total of 107 notices had been issued by various local authorities in Sarawak.
Kuching North City Hall (DBKU) issued the highest number with 34 notices of warning to business operators under its jurisdiction, followed by Padawan Municipal Council with 29.
Sibu Municipal Council (SMC) issued 20 such warnings while Marudi District Council, 15.
Serian District Council issued four such notices of warning while Bintulu Development Authority, Subis District Council and Lawas District Council issued one each. — DayakDaily
