Over 100 foreign nationals detained in Johor crackdown

JOHOR BARU: Over 100 foreign nationals were apprehended in the Kulai and Kota Tinggi districts between July 28 and July 30.

Johor Immigration Department Director Datuk Mohd Rusdi Mohd Darus reported that the detainees were found to be working without permits, lacking valid travel documents, or having overstayed their visas in Malaysia.

“During the operation, we inspected approximately 791 individuals, including both locals and foreigners, resulting in the arrest of 110 foreigners,” he stated.

The operation, known as Ops Bersama, was a joint effort involving the Johor Immigration Department, Kulai Police District Headquarters, Kota Tinggi District Office, Road Transport Department, National Registration Department, Kulai Municipal Council, Manpower Department, and the Ministry of Tourism, Art, and Culture.

According to Mohd Rusdi, those arrested came from countries including Bangladesh, Indonesia, the Philippines, Pakistan, Myanmar, Cambodia, India, and Nepal. The detainees ranged in age from 17 to 65.

Additionally, a 31-year-old local man, believed to be a human resources manager at a factory in Kulai, was also arrested.

The detained individuals face charges under Regulation 39(b) of the Immigration Regulations 1963, Section 6(1)(c) of the Immigration Act 1959/63 (Act 155), and Section 15(1)(c) of the Immigration Act 1959/63 (Act 155).

Mohd Rusdi emphasized that the Johor Immigration Department will continue collaborating with other enforcement agencies to combat illegal immigration in Johor. He also warned that the department would take strict action against employers and business owners who hire illegal foreign workers.