KLANG, March 16 — The Selangor Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) has identified hotspots, or rat trails, believed to be used as entry and exit routes for illegal immigrants before the Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebration.
Its director Maritime Captain Abdul Muhaimin Muhammad Salleh said the area in the northern region of the state, especially around the fishing industry area, is one of the focus areas for illegal entry and exit due to its open geographical position and proximity to maritime borders.
Initial intelligence has revealed that attempts to exit illegally through the location have been detected since the start of Ramadan.
To deal with such activities, the Selangor MMEA has also sought help from headquarters concerning additional intelligence, as there are many known locations of risk apart from the fishing industry area.
He was speaking at the MMEA and National Security Council (MKN) strategic security operation programme yesterday.
“To the syndicates, especially locals, I would like to advise you against getting involved; your actions will be closely monitored… it is best that you become our eyes and ears to eradicate this activity for the sake of Malaysia jointly,” Abdul Muhaimin said.
He is also hopeful that the close cooperation between MMEA and MKN can be increased, especially in terms of information sharing, to prevent any criminal activities from taking place in national waters.
This strategic cooperation with security authorities has contributed to MMEA’s success in combating criminal activities, including the recent thwarting of an attempt to smuggle an estimated RM1.32 million in syabu early last month.
— Bernama
