Immigration D-G: Officer who punched foreigner suspended, could be fired

PETALING JAYA: The "despicable" conduct by an Immigration officer caught on video hitting a foreigner at the Department's office in Johor Baru has led to his suspension and a possible dismissal, says Datuk Seri Mustafar Ali.

The Immigration director-general said the officer was suspended immediately after the video went viral on social media.

"His actions have damaged the Department's image and reputation. It is clearly against our code of ethics of public service.

Mustafar added that the Department would never protect anyone who committed such an offence.

"We will never compromise against anyone who commits such despicable action. Among further action that can be taken is termination of employment," he said, adding that any action taken would be based on Public Service Regulations.

The incident occurred at about 9am Wednesday (May 30) at the Immigration Department office in Wisma Persekutuan, Johor Baru.

In the 10-second video, the immigration officer can be seen hitting a foreigner on the head and forcing his hand onto a scanner, while continuously berating him.

The video went viral almost immediately.

However, it is unclear why the officer lost his cool and acted in this manner.