KUALA LUMPUR: 'Mini Dhaka' located on Jalan Silang and Lebuh Pudu here is bustling with the presence of foreign nationals vending around the sidewalks.
The majority of these vendors consist of Bangladeshi nationals.
A survey by Berita Harian today found more than 10 vendors selling items such as sweets, betel leaves, contraband cigarettes, and fish along the sidewalks.
According to a Bangladeshi fish vendor, the fish supplies he sells are obtained from nearby shops.
"I get these fish from a shop over there (near Jalan Silang). They get their supplies from Myanmar. I sell one for RM11," he said when approached by reporters.
When sought for further information, the vendor left his stall and moved to another location, seemingly trying to evade further questioning.
The survey also found several Rohingya beggars roaming around. If not given money, they would act aggressively, such as pulling clothes to prevent pedestrians from going elsewhere.
Not far from Jalan Silang, a Rapid KL bus station was also seen crowded with foreign nationals lining up to use the existing public transportation.
Meanwhile, a bottled water vendor who wished to be known as Putra, said this situation is normal, especially during festive seasons.
"Although there are many foreign nationals today, their numbers have actually decreased compared to last year. Before the crackdown on 'Mini Dhaka', there were more of them, but now they are more cautious.
"Being surrounded by foreign nationals, I admit I am somewhat afraid, but I have to brave it to earn a living," he said.
He also admitted that his business was disrupted due to the presence of roaming foreign vendors.
"These foreign vendors do disrupt my business as they block the passage. Besides, even though the area is crowded, sales are not profitable. Until 1pm today, I only managed to sell 10 coconuts," he said.
On Dec 21, it was reported that more than 1,000 members and officers of the General Operations Force (PGA) police besieged 'Mini Dhaka' on Jalan Silang.
The siege began at 11am to raid the foreign nationals' colony that was increasingly becoming 'bold' by acting like locals. Security forces armed and equipped with special gear were seen breaking into every premise involving four blocks on the street to apprehend those attempting to flee.
It is understood that the raid was conducted to address the flooding of foreign nationals on Jalan Silang, their businesses, and the illegal employment of foreign nationals.
