CMCO: 1,408 illegal immigrants, 14 'tekongs' arrested for trying to encroach our borders

Authorities have arrested 14 ‘tekongs’ for attempting to smuggle in illegal immigrants into the country using rat alleys.

Senior Minister (Security Cluster), Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob said 1,408 illegal immigrants were also detained.

“The government views seriously the attempts by several parties attempts to encroach into our borders, including through rat alleys.

"From May 1 to May 15, 2020, government agencies tasked with controlling border areas such as the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM), Malaysian Armed Forces, Border Control Agency, Malaysian Immigration Department and the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency have arrested 1,408 illegal immigrants attempting to enter the country illegally through rat alleys, land and sea lanes,” he added.

Ismail Sabri said, the government would continue to monitor and tighten controls on land and sea borders, especially in rat alleys, to restrict entry of illegal immigrants and ensure that the country's sovereignty was safeguarded.

He said that as of yesterday, 232 quarantine centres were operating compared to 231 the previous day where 14,219 individuals were under compulsory quarantine.

Ismail Sabri said, 975 Malaysians had returned to the country yesterday and they were also undergoing compulsory quarantine.

To date, he added, 28,330 individuals have completed the compulsory quarantine and allowed to return home.