During a two-day operation in Johor, the Immigration Department detained 42 undocumented migrants, including two children. State Immigration director Baharuddin Tahir stated that the individuals were found to be residing and working in the country without permits or passes, with some having overstayed their visas. The raids were executed at 52 premises in Johor Baru, Muar, and Batu Pahat following public complaints about the presence of foreigners at these locations.
Out of 224 individuals who were screened during the operation, 42 were detained for various offences, including nationals from Myanmar, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Nepal, India, and Vietnam. Among the detainees were 26 Myanmar nationals, including six women and a boy, as well as individuals ranging in age from three to 52 years old.
Baharuddin outlined that the detainees had committed offenses such as not having valid passports or permits to be in Malaysia, overstaying their visas, and violating the terms of their visit passes under the Immigration Act 1959/63. In addition, six notices were issued to employers during the operation for further investigation.
The Immigration Department announced plans to strengthen enforcement efforts in Johor, particularly in areas known to be gathering spots for undocumented foreigners. Baharuddin also cautioned employers and premises owners about the consequences they could face for hiring individuals without proper documentation.
