Malaysian border agents detain 11 Thai nationals for migrant smuggling and document offences, seizing vehicles and uncovering a separate fuel smuggling case.
BUKIT KAYU HITAM: The Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS) has detained 11 Thai nationals for suspected migrant smuggling and immigration violations. The individuals were apprehended at the Bukit Kayu Hitam Immigration, Customs, Quarantine and Security Complex on Saturday.
AKPS commander SAC Fauzi Mohd Yusof said the group in three Thai-registered vans aroused suspicion in the bus lane at 11.30 pm. An inspection revealed seven individuals lacked any valid travel documents.
These seven were detained under the Immigration Act 1959/63. The remaining four men with documents were held under the Anti-Trafficking in Persons and Anti-Smuggling of Migrants Act 2007.
Authorities seized the three vans and four cats found inside them. The animals were handed to the Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Services Department for further action.
Preliminary investigations suggest all detainees were from a welfare centre in Thailand’s Pha-ngan region. They were allegedly heading to the south of the country.
All 11 have been remanded for two weeks until April 18 at the Belantik Immigration Depot in Sik. Fauzi stated AKPS will not compromise on any migrant smuggling or human trafficking activities.
In a separate case, AKPS detained a Thai national for suspected petrol smuggling on Monday. Enforcement officers stopped a car driven by a man in his 50s at the complex exit.
Inspection revealed modifications to the vehicle’s rear and seating area for smuggling. Authorities discovered approximately 400 litres of petrol, valued at around RM1,550, hidden inside.
This case is being investigated under the Control of Supplies Act 1961. Fauzi emphasised strict action will be taken against any party misusing the country’s entry points.
