Seven illegals detained in joint operation in Penang's south-west district

GEORGE TOWN: Seven illegal immigrants were detained in an operation conducted by Penang Island City Council (MBPP), Immigration Department and Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry on Sunday (Oct 15).

The illegal immigrants were arrested by the Immigration Department personnel for not having valid travel documents.

MBPP, in a Facebook post, said the integrated operation was led by MBPP's Licensing Department to combat business activities among foreign nationals at a night market in south-west district of Penang island.

During the operation, MBPP's Small Business Unit has conducted check on 123 hawkers at the night market and had confiscated items from four stall selling fruits and carpets that were manned by foreign traders.

A total of 12 compound notices were also issued to food traders at the night market who did not have anti-typhoid injection.

"During the operation, MBPP licensing officers provide warnings and advice to food and beverage vendors to prioritise environmental cleanliness and business equipment to ensure the quality of food and beverage preparation is guaranteed," it said.

State Domestic Trade and Cost of Living personnel also conducted checks on the stalls at the night market and issued warnings and notices to traders regarding the price labelling on their products to ensure that it was detailed and refined,so as not to cause confusion for customers.

At the same time, MBPP inspected five business premises and issued one notice to a premises owner who conducted business without a licence and another notice and three compounds for putting their equipment and products on the road side and causing obstacles.

MBPP said such operations will be continued from time to time by involving more enforcement agencies in the future.