RM15,000 Smuggling Fee Exposed as Malaysian Authorities Arrest 37 Illegal Migrants in Kedah Waters
ALOR SETAR, March 2 — A smuggling attempt involving illegal migrants who paid as much as RM15,000 each to enter Malaysia was foiled after maritime authorities intercepted their boat off the Kedah coast.
A total of 37 individuals were detained in a coordinated operation involving the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency and Marine Police.
Authorities said the group consisted of 32 Myanmar nationals, three Bangladeshis believed to be facilitators, and two Thai nationals acting as boat operators.
Migrants gathered before being smuggled by sea
Officials said the migrants were first transported through a neighbouring country before being temporarily housed at a staging location.
They were later transported into Malaysian waters using small speedboats, a tactic believed to help evade detection.
Authorities said the route from southern Thailand to Kedah has become a preferred entry point for smugglers.
Child among those detained, vehicles seized
The detainees included men aged between 15 and 47 as well as a six-year-old boy.
Authorities also seized three vehicles suspected of being used to transport the migrants after landing.
The total value of seized assets was estimated at RM215,000.
Investigations are ongoing under immigration and anti-trafficking laws.
Authorities intensify patrols amid ongoing threat
Officials believe the smuggling syndicate remains active.
They warned more attempts could occur.
Authorities said enforcement operations will continue to safeguard Malaysian waters.
-wilayah.com.my
