Immigration warns against impostors extorting money

Reports by MAZWIN NIK ANIS, JUNAID IBRAHIM, RAGANANTHINI VETHASALAM and JUSTIN ZACK

PETALING JAYA: The Immigration Department is investigating the emergence of alleged impostors posing as the department’s officers and extorting money from unsuspecting travellers at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) in Sepang.

Immigration director-general Datuk Ruslin Jusoh said the department has started an investigation on the matter.

“This allegation is of grave concern as it tarnishes the image of the department.

“I have directed for an investigation to be carried out and for the mastermind to be identified,” he told The Star.Ruslin said the Immigration Department in KLIA had also lodged a police report following the claims.

“This will enable authorities to investigate the allegation that Immigration personnel are demanding money,” he said.

Meanwhile, Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB) said a video of a passenger at the KLIA being extorted by someone posing as an Immigration officer has come to the airport authority’s attention.

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“Following this, we have brought forward the matter to the police for a thorough investigation and appropriate action,” MAHB said when contacted.

MAHB also urged travellers and the public to immediately report such incidents if they encounter similar situations.

“We urge the public and passengers to promptly report any similar incidents to either the police or airport personnel for swift action and resolution to be taken.

“It is crucial for victims to come forward and report, as these activities are often not carried out openly, making it challenging for law enforcers to address them effectively,” it said.