Illegal immigrants learn Malay before entry as syndicate operations uncovered

 

Erwan Shah said foreign boats usually travelled at about eight knots, while Malaysian maritime assets could reach 15 to 18 knots, enabling interception if the vessels were detected early. - BERNAMA pic

PASIR PUTEH: A new trend in illegal immigration has emerged, with investigations by the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) revealing that immigrants entering via Kelantan waters had learned Bahasa Melayu in their home country to facilitate their movement within Malaysia.

Kelantan MMEA director Captain Erwan Shah Soahdi said the findings pointed to a well‑organised syndicate operating across borders with increasingly sophisticated planning.

"Preliminary investigations indicate that these entries are not random but managed by syndicates that prepare the immigrants in advance before bringing them into the country. They have studied Malay in their home country, Myanmar, which demonstrates careful preparation prior to entry and reinforces the belief that a syndicate is orchestrating their movements," he told Bernama.

Erwan Shah added that most immigrants did not travel far upon arrival, instead moving through small rivers, forested areas and remote locations before being collected by land vehicles.

He said that smuggling activities continued to evolve alongside technology.

"Smugglers' methods have become increasingly sophisticated to evade authorities. We have detected instances of smugglers using drones to monitor areas, mirroring the technology employed by enforcement agencies, which includes drones and night‑vision equipment," he said.

Current smuggling tactics include the staged use of small boats, advance surveillance prior to landing, and drone monitoring of enforcement movements. Kelantan‑Terengganu waters have been identified as key intrusion points based on MMEA seizure patterns.

He said most incursions occurred near the border of the two states, allowing foreign vessels to quickly retreat to international waters if detected.

"Records show foreign fishing boats typically operate around 120 to 130 nautical miles, staying close to the Kelantan‑Terengganu border, demonstrating caution and readiness to escape," he added.

Erwan Shah said foreign boats usually travelled at about eight knots, while Malaysian maritime assets could reach 15 to 18 knots, enabling interception if the vessels were detected early.

He added that most operations and seizures were carried out at night, when foreign vessel activity was highest, utilising available enforcement assets. No arrests have been made during daylight hours.

On action against detained foreign crew, MMEA said the individuals would be investigated and held before being brought to court.

If ordered deported, they will be handed over to the Immigration Department for repatriation. - NST