Cops urged to thoroughly probe Bukit Mertajam human trafficking syndicate

 Bukit Mertajam MP Steven Sim says his office will monitor developments in the case.

Bukit Mertajam MP Steven Sim said his office would work with enforcement agencies, including the police and the immigration department, to strengthen preventive measures.

GEORGE TOWN:

Bukit Mertajam MP Steven Sim has called on the police to carry out a comprehensive investigation into the human trafficking syndicate uncovered in Berapit, Bukit Mertajam, to ensure the culprits are brought to justice.

The entrepreneur and cooperatives development minister said the successful operation by the police, particularly the Seberang Perai Tengah police headquarters and Bukit Aman, reflected the force’s commitment and effectiveness in combating cross-border crime.

“I would like to express my appreciation and congratulate the police. At the same time, I urge the police and the home ministry to intensify enforcement and surveillance efforts to curb increasingly sophisticated human trafficking and scam syndicates,” he said in a statement.

Sim said the Bukit Mertajam MP’s office would continue to closely monitor developments in the case and work with enforcement agencies, including the police and the immigration department, to strengthen preventive measures.

On Friday, Penang police chief Dennis Lim said the authorities uncovered a human trafficking and exploitation syndicate during a raid in Berapit. Police rescued a 25-year-old Cameroonian woman who was believed to have been confined and exploited.

The operation also led to the arrest of a Taiwanese man believed to be the employer and operator of the syndicate, as well as 29 foreign nationals, including nine women, who failed to produce valid travel or identification documents. - FMT