Immigration Raids Result in 197 Arrests in Sabah

Sabah Immigration Department Cracks Down on Illegal Immigrants

The Sabah Immigration Department has made a significant haul in its efforts to combat illegal immigration, detaining 197 individuals during raids at two construction worker hostels in Menggatal and Tuaran early this morning. According to Datuk Sh Sitti Saleha Habib Yusoff, the department’s director, the majority of those arrested were Filipino nationals, with two Indonesian nationals also among those detained.

Raids Conducted Overnight

The operation, which involved 53 officers from the Immigration Department Headquarters, began at midnight and concluded at 5 am. The targeted sites were construction worker hostels, where individuals were engaging in unlawful activities. During the raids, several individuals attempted to flee and hide in dense bushes, posing significant safety risks to both the authorities and themselves. The challenging terrain, including steep hills, and attempts to evade capture resulted in scuffles with the authorities.

Offences Included Overstaying and Lack of Identification Documents

Those arrested were apprehended for various immigration offences, including overstaying and lack of identification documents under Sections 6(1)(c) and 15(1)(c) of the Immigration Act 1959/63. This highlights the importance of compliance with immigration laws and the consequences of flouting these regulations.

Continued Enforcement Efforts

Sh Sitti Saleha has emphasized that enforcement operations will continue to track down, arrest, prosecute, and deport foreign nationals who flout immigration laws. She has also urged the public to provide information about illegal immigrants or activities that could assist enforcement efforts.

Conclusion

The Sabah Immigration Department’s efforts demonstrate its commitment to combating illegal immigration and ensuring that individuals comply with immigration laws. The department’s continued enforcement operations will undoubtedly have a positive impact on the state’s immigration situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How many individuals were arrested during the raids?
A: 197 individuals were arrested.

Q: What were the most common immigration offences committed by those arrested?
A: The most common offences were overstaying and lack of identification documents.

Q: What is the Immigration Department’s plan to tackle illegal immigration?
A: The department will continue to track down, arrest, prosecute, and deport foreign nationals who flout immigration laws.