SHAH ALAM: A total of 766 illegal immigrants have been detained through 168 operations done by the Immigration Department in Jan, this year.
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said of the total detained, eight individuals had involved employers of foreign workers.
"As of Jan 5, 168 operations were done where we examined 2,049 individuals. Of the total, 766 illegal immigrants were detained, with eight involving employers.
"Malaysia's stance is also simple, all tourists and travelers are welcome, but they must comply with our rules and regulations by having valid travel documents and visas.
"This is a Madani government and we have compassion and mercy, but at the same time, we also have to uphold justice and law," he said during the press conference of WRP 2.0 at the Selangor Immigration Department, today.
Saifuddin said this when asked about the total number of illegal immigrants detained in Jan, this year,
Also in attendance were Home Ministry secretary-general Ruji Ubi and Immigration Department director-general Datuk Ruslin Jusoh.
Meanwhile, Saifuddin added that stern actions would also be taken against those who violate the law including those bringing illegal immigrants as well as those protecting them.
"For employers or any Malaysian citizens protecting (illegal immigrants), if there's a violation, we place them in immigration depots.
"If it involves overstaying, after imposing a compound, two actions will be taken where we call their embassy for related documents and blacklist them to restrict their entry until an appeal is submitted."
Meanwhile, when asked whether the ministry will take action against third parties who carry out raids without the supervision of the authorities, Saifuddin said such matters will be handled by the police.
"Any operation is under the jurisdiction of the authorities, they are the legitimate authorities. Hence, I will leave it to the police to deal with."
