IPOH: Over 120 foreign workers have been detained in an integrated operation in Cameron Highlands for flaunting Immigration laws.
Cameron Highlands OCPD Supt Azri Ramli said the two-day operation was conducted on Jan 15 and Jan 16, led by the police together with personnel from various government enforcement agencies namely the Immigration Department, Road Transport Department, Customs Department, District Council, Manpower Department and the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission.
He said the objective of this operation was to reduce criminal activities in the highlands involving foreigners.
"In addition, social media also often reports the influx of foreigners in Cameron Highlands.
"In this operation, inspections were carried out at locations involving foreign accommodation, business premises, construction sites and roadblocks involving foreign drivers," he said in a statement on Thursday (Jan 16).
Supt Azri said a total of 56 premises were raided and 686 locals and 2,090 foreigners were inspected.
"A total of 121 foreigners were arrested for offences under Section 6(1)(c) of the Immigration Act and Immigration Regulations.
They comprised 111 men and 10 women from Myanmar, Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Indonesia, Vietnam and Nepal.
Supt Azri added based on inspections by the Manpower Department, action was taken against 32 premises, with 52 various charges brought against the owners.
"In addition, two local men were arrested at roadblocks under the Customs Act and Dangerous Drugs Act.
"A total of 156 summonses were issued by the police and the Road Transport Department for various offences," he said.
Supt Azri said such operations would be carried out continuously to reduce crime involving foreigners and combat their influx in Cameron Highlands.
He said the public with any information could contact the operations room at 05-491 5999 or any nearby police station.