Govt cancels passports of 68 IS supporters

KUALA SELANGOR: A total 68 passports belonging to Malaysians who are abroad have been revoked due to their involvement with the Islamic State (IS).

Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said their involvement with the militant group was uncovered by intelligence.

"They no longer have travel documents as Malaysian citizens and if they return to the country, action in line with the Immigration Act will be initiated against them," Dr Ahmad Zahid, who is also Home Minister told reporters after opening the Kuala Selangor Umno division meeting Sunday.

He added that the passports were cancelled two weeks ago after Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak directed the move.

Earlier in his speech Dr Ahmad Zahid said those who had left the country to go and serve the militant group did not deserve to return home.

Dr Ahmad Zahid added that there will be no compromise with those who have betrayed their country and people.

"We will disown them," said Dr Ahmad Zahid, adding that the Government does not want "ideological criminals" in the country.

He narrated how two families with young children - from Shah Alam and Ipoh - had sold their property and belongings and moved to Syria to serve IS.

"But what they are doing now is washing toilets and sweeping roads there. I have photos to prove it," he added.

According to Dr Ahmad Zahid he received messages that they regret their move and want to come home.

"But the Cabinet has decided to cancel their passports," he added.

On another matter, Dr Ahmad Zahid said the authorities were currently searching for eight out of the 10 grenades in the hands of a militant group which had launched an attack here.

Two of the grenades were set off at the Movida Restaurant in Puchong on June 28.

He said police and the military are tracking down the militants and the eight bombs that are in their possession.