11 Smugglers, 33 Undocumented Migrants Detained in Padang Besar Over One Month

Authorities in Padang Besar, Perlis, have intensified efforts against human trafficking and migrant smuggling, leading to the apprehension of 11 smugglers and 33 undocumented foreign nationals within a single month. The operations, conducted between May and June, resulted in eight recorded cases under the Anti-Trafficking in Persons and Anti-Smuggling of Migrants Act 2007 (Atipsom).

“

This success proves the continuous commitment of the Perlis Police in curbing migrant smuggling activities that can threaten public safety and order.

State Police Chief Datuk Muhammad Abdul Halim stated that the detained migrants hailed from Myanmar, Indonesia, Bangladesh, and China. He emphasized that these successes underscore the Perlis police's ongoing commitment to curbing migrant smuggling activities that pose a threat to public safety and order.

In a significant development during this period, police arrested a local man suspected of being a smuggler. The arrest, made at a house in Felda Rimba Mas, also led to the discovery of a Glock pistol and ammunition hidden in a bedroom ceiling. Further investigation revealed the suspect had 15 prior records involving criminal offenses, drug-related charges, and Atipsom violations.

“

The investigation into the involved suspect also led to the discovery of the weapon's location.

In a separate incident on June 15, police seized a Smith & Wesson pistol from a Range Rover in Kampung Kubang Tiga. This discovery stemmed from the investigation of a criminal intimidation case involving a meter reader. The suspect in this case had previously been detained on June 9 for the intimidation incident.

“

The suspect involved has also been charged in the Kangar Court under Section 26A Atipsom 2007, Section 8 of the Firearms Act (Heavier Penalty) 1971, and Section 8 (a) of the Arms Act 1960.