Eight locals, 37 illegals nabbed in anti-illegal worker ops

MIRI: The state Immigration Department has arrested eight employers for employing illegal migrants without valid work permits in an operation codenamed ‘Ops Selera’.

The operation conducted by the Miri Immigration Division, was held at various eateries in and around the city on Friday (Jan 5) with a total of 97 foreigners inspected.

It resulted in the arrests of eight Malaysians who were found to have hired foreign individuals without the necessary permits.

Aside from that, 37 foreigners, comprising 36 Indonesians and one Filipino, were also arrested.

The detained foreign nationals have been remanded and the case is being investigated under Sections 6(1)(c), 15(1)(c) of the Immigration Act 1959/63, and Regulation 39(b) of the Immigration Regulations 1963.

It was said that the surge in hiring illegal migrants is attributed to some employers pursuing profit opportunities amid the reopening of the economy and the resumption of cross-country movement.

Miri, known for its economic prosperity driven by ‘black gold’ resources, has experienced a notable economic upswing, creating job opportunities for locals as well as attracting foreign nationals seeking a share in the city’s prosperity.

Immigration officers conducting inspections at various eateries in Miri city on Friday (Jan 5).