The Kuala Lumpur Immigration Department detained 472 foreign nationals for various immigration offences during a large-scale integrated enforcement operation at Lebuh Pudu on Sunday. Around 2,500 foreigners were screened during the operation, which began at approximately 11am.
Kuala Lumpur Immigration Director Datuk Hamsha Injau said those detained comprised 439 men and 33 women aged between 18 and 62. They were nationals of Bangladesh, Myanmar, the Philippines, Nepal, Indonesia, Pakistan, India, China, Zimbabwe and Saudi Arabia.
Among the offences detected were failing to possess valid identification documents, overstaying and using unrecognised documents, as well as other violations under the Immigration Act. All 472 detainees will be placed at the Bukit Jalil Immigration Depot for investigation and further action.
The raid followed public complaints over the large presence of foreigners and premises suspected of operating businesses illegally. Some premises were also suspected of being operated by or employing foreign nationals. Businesses believed to be operating illegally will be investigated by Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL).
A total of 337 enforcement personnel participated, including 218 Immigration officers and 119 personnel from other agencies. JIM stressed that enforcement will continue against immigration offenders, including employers, business owners and individuals who harbour or employ undocumented migrants.
