Immigration Raid in Bukit Bintang Leads to Arrest of 152 Foreign Nationals
KUALA LUMPUR: Jabatan Imigresen Malaysia arrested 152 foreign nationals during an enforcement raid carried out at an entertainment outlet in Bukit Bintang early this morning.
The operation, conducted at approximately 1.30am, also resulted in the discovery of substances suspected to be drugs believed to have been used for entertainment activities at the premises.
Director-General of Jabatan Imigresen Malaysia, Zakaria Shaaban, said the arrests followed inspections involving 194 foreign nationals and 49 Malaysians found at the entertainment centre.
According to him, 129 of those detained were Chinese nationals while the remaining detainees involved individuals from several other countries.
“Enforcement action was taken under the Immigration Act 1959/63 and Regulation 39(b) of the Immigration Regulations 1963,” he said in a statement today.
Zakaria added that immigration authorities also issued 17 witness summonses using Form 29 to facilitate further investigations into the operation.
He stressed that Jabatan Imigresen Malaysia will continue intensifying enforcement operations against foreign nationals found residing illegally, overstaying or abusing their immigration passes in the country.
According to him, strict action will also be taken against employers and business operators found protecting or hiring undocumented migrants.
“JIM will not compromise on any immigration offences involving misuse of passes or illegal immigrant activities,” he said.
The operation is believed to be part of ongoing enforcement efforts aimed at monitoring foreign national activities and ensuring entertainment outlets comply with Malaysia’s immigration regulations.
The discovery of suspected drugs during the raid has also raised concerns over possible substance abuse activities taking place at entertainment premises around the capital.
However, authorities have yet to confirm the exact type of substances seized, while investigations remain ongoing to determine whether additional offences may have been committed under related laws.
All individuals detained during the operation were taken to immigration detention depots for documentation and further investigation procedures.
Jabatan Imigresen Malaysia also reminded employers and business owners to ensure foreign workers possess valid travel documents and work permits to avoid legal action.
-wilayah.com.my
