By Tedong Rantayy
MIRI, June 15: In a major enforcement action, Miri Immigration Enforcement (UPI) apprehended 35 illegal immigrants during a surprise operation at an oil palm plantation in Lambir Bukit Song early Friday (June 14) morning.
The operation, carried out in collaboration with the Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC), was based on exchange of information and intelligence between the law enforcement authorities.
According to a statement from the Sarawak Immigration Department (JIMS), the detainees were found to have committed various immigration offenses, including overstaying and lacking valid travel documents and passports.
“The investigation revealed that the plantation employer had previously been advised to register foreign workers without valid passports under the Workforce Recalibration Programme, which began in July 2023. Despite these advisories, the employer failed to comply,” the JIMS stated.
The detained individuals are now undergoing further investigation and will be charged under Section 6(1)(c) and Section 15(1)(c) of the Immigration Act 1959/63.
Authorities emphasised the importance for employers to fulfill their responsibilities by securing proper work passes for foreign workers to avoid legal consequences.
The public is encouraged to report any relevant information to the Malaysian Immigration Department or through the online complaint channel. — DayakDaily
