12 Myanmar nationals caught hiding in forest

Malaysian authorities have apprehended 12 undocumented Myanmar nationals who were allegedly hiding in a forest area in Pasir Mas, Kelantan. The group was discovered in Kampung Tok Rusa, Meranti, during a special operation, codenamed Op Taring Wawasan Kelantan, conducted on Tuesday afternoon.

According to Senior Assistant Commissioner Ahmad Radzi Hussain, commander of the Southeast Brigade, the operation targeted a suspected migrant smuggling syndicate. The 12 individuals, comprising seven men and five women, were found to be without any valid identification documents. Initial investigations suggest they entered Malaysia through unofficial, unmapped routes.

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The location was believed to be used as a temporary stopover before the group was taken to their predetermined destination to avoid detection by authorities.

The apprehended individuals are believed to have been using the forest location as a temporary staging point before being moved to their intended destinations. This tactic is often employed by smuggling networks to evade detection by law enforcement. The difficulty in questioning the group was compounded by their inability to speak Malay or English, hindering the initial stages of the investigation.

During the operation, the General Operations Force (PGA) also seized 11 mobile phones, estimated to be worth RM11,000. The case is currently being investigated under Section 6(1)(c) of the Immigration Act 1959/63. The operation highlights ongoing efforts to combat illegal immigration and human trafficking in the region.

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They also could not speak Malay or English, which complicated the interrogation process.