Indonesians shot by MMEA involved in migrant smuggling, says Selangor top cop


SHAH ALAM: The Indonesian men who were shot after attacking Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) officers in the waters of Tanjung Rhu, Banting, were involved in migrant smuggling, say police.

Selangor police chief Comm Datuk Hussein Omar Khan said four of the suspects are receiving treatment in hospital while one was killed.

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"We believe they were leaving Malaysia illegally.

"They were part of a migrant smuggling ring and we are investigating the role each individual played," he told a press conference at state police headquarters here on Friday (Jan 31).

Comm Hussein said the investigation into the incident was almost complete.

"We will refer the investigation paper to the deputy public prosecutor soon," he said.

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The police have recorded the statements of 14 MMEA officers and personnel as well as two Indonesian suspects warded at Hospital Sultan Idris Shah, Serdang.

"We have also inspected both boats involved in the incident.

"We are also identifying others involved including two other Indonesian men who sent three of the suspects to the hospital.

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"We are also tracking about 10 to 15 other foreigners believed to be on the boat," he said.

Comm Hussein said MMEA personnel followed procedure in the incident and opened fire on the suspects in self-defence.

"The authorities are stepping up patrols along maritime borders to curb illegal activities," he added.

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