Migrant Smuggling Syndicate “Geng Ashraf” Busted in Kuala Lumpur Raid
KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Immigration Department (JIM) has successfully dismantled a migrant smuggling syndicate known as “Geng Ashraf” following a late-night raid in Ampang on April 3.
The operation, carried out at approximately 12:40 a.m., targeted a shop-lot residence believed to be used as a transit and hiding place for undocumented migrants. Enforcement officers were forced to break through the gate and main door before gaining access to the premises.
During the raid, authorities detained 27 Bangladeshi men, aged between 20 and 49, who are suspected of being smuggled into Malaysia. Initial investigations revealed that the migrants had entered a neighboring country just three days earlier before being transported illegally into Malaysia.
In addition, three Bangladeshi men believed to be members of the syndicate were arrested. They are suspected of acting as facilitators and caretakers of the transit house.
According to JIM, the syndicate has been active since January 2025, offering illegal entry services via third countries. Migrants were reportedly smuggled into Malaysia through Kelantan before being transported to the Klang Valley and distributed to various destinations.
Each migrant is believed to have paid up to RM8,000 for the journey, with the syndicate estimated to have generated approximately RM2.4 million in profits since its inception.
All detained individuals are currently being held at the Putrajaya Immigration Depot for further investigation under the Anti-Trafficking in Persons and Anti-Smuggling of Migrants Act 2007 (ATIPSOM).
Public Cooperation Key to Strengthening Immigration Enforcement
In a related development, JIM has acknowledged a recently viral video alleging an influx of foreign nationals in the Kulim Hi-Tech Park (KHTP) area in Kedah.
The department urged the public to report any suspicious activities involving foreign nationals promptly. Early and accurate information, it said, is crucial in enabling authorities to conduct thorough intelligence gathering and plan more effective enforcement operations.
“Public cooperation plays a vital role in ensuring enforcement efforts are well-coordinated, targeted, and carried out with integrity,” JIM said in a statement.
Authorities emphasized that direct reporting helps speed up verification processes, minimizes information leaks, and allows swift action to be taken.
Members of the public are encouraged to channel information through official platforms, including the Immigration Department’s hotline, email, and online complaint portal. JIM assured that the identity of informants will be kept strictly confidential.
The department reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening immigration law enforcement to safeguard national security, public order, and sovereignty, adding that continued community support remains a cornerstone of its success.