Masjid India Immigration Raid, over a hundred Undocumented Migrants Detained
KUALA LUMPUR: The Immigration Department of Malaysia (JIM) confirmed that a large-scale immigration enforcement operation today in Masjid India, one of Kuala Lumpur’s busiest shopping and commercial hubs, led to the detention of 171 undocumented migrants.
The operation, which began at 10:00 a.m., involved over 160 immigration enforcement officers and was spearheaded by Tuan Haji Basri Othman, Director of JIM’s Enforcement Division, alongside Senior Assistant Director Megat Putera Nizam Megat Hussin.
A total of 758 individuals were screened during the raid. Those detained included nationals primarily from India, Bangladesh, and Indonesia, who were found to have committed various immigration offenses, including overstaying, lacking valid documents, or working without proper permits.
At a press conference held at the site, Basri Othman stated, “This operation is based on gathered intelligence and numerous public complaints regarding the increasing presence of undocumented migrants in this area.”
He added that some foreign nationals attempted to escape, provoke officers, or disguise themselves as customers in nearby shops during the inspection. Despite the rain hindering outdoor inspections, enforcement teams remained steadfast in executing the operation.
“We are committed to protecting national security and upholding immigration laws. These operations will continue regularly and without warning,” said Basri.
He also issued a stern warning to employers, urging them not to hire foreigners without proper documentation. “Action will be taken against those found employing illegal migrants. The law applies to everyone equally,” he emphasized.
The Immigration Department noted that such high-impact operations are crucial to curbing the rise of undocumented workers and preventing exploitation in the labor market. Further investigations are ongoing, and legal action will be initiated under Malaysia’s Immigration Act 1959/63 and related regulations.
Authorities reaffirmed that they remain committed to safeguarding the integrity of Malaysia’s immigration system and maintaining public order through consistent and proactive enforcement efforts.