Customs department thwarts attempt to smuggle foreigners out

JOHOR BAHRU: The Customs Department has thwarted an attempt to smuggle out four foreign migrants through illegal routes in Pontian waters, near Pontian last Saturday evening (Feb 27).

Johor Customs director, Sazali Mohamad said the department's marine unit enforcement division stumbled upon a boat carrying a group of people during a patrol at about 1.40 pm, comprising four foreigners aged between 24 and 46 years old.

"Upon further examination, it was found that the three men did not possess valid travel documents while the woman held a passport.

"They all did not have valid passes or permits to stay in Malaysia, and were then detained for further investigations," he said in a statement today.

Sazali said the results of further investigations found that they were trying to leave Malaysia via an illegal route to return to their country of origin by sea without using valid documents or travel permits.

"We appeal to the public to help the JKDM fight crimes of smuggling, especially for cigarettes, liquor, firecrackers, drugs, vehicles and others, and people are advised not to engage in such activities," he said.

He urged the public to channel information related to smuggling activities to the Customs Toll-Free Line 1-800-88-8855 or to the nearest Customs office.

-- BERNAMA