GEORGE TOWN: A total of 21 illegal immigrants were detained for various immigration offences during a joint operation at four business premises, including a sundry shop and a grocery store in Jalan Dato Keramat here on Monday (July 13).
Penang Immigration Department enforcement chief Syamsul Fitry Ahmad said 35 foreign nationals were inspected during the operation, which began at 9am following public complaints and intelligence gathered by the department.
"Those arrested comprised 15 Indian men, three Bangladeshi men and three Myanmar men, aged between 18 and 50.
"Preliminary investigations found offences including not possessing valid travel or identification documents, breaching pass conditions, overstaying and holding unrecognised cards," he said, adding that five witness summonses were also issued to assist investigations.
Syamsul said all those detained would be taken to the department's office for their statements to be recorded before being sent to the immigration depot.
He said several detainees claimed they were only at the premises to buy goods, while others denied working there despite initial findings suggesting otherwise.
"We believe some entered the country as tourists but failed to leave after their passes expired and have since overstayed.
"Some are believed to have been in the country for as long as three years.
"Those suspected of working at the premises are believed to be employed mainly as shop assistants, although their employment status will be verified through investigations and statements from their employers," he said.
