GEORGE TOWN: Tearful pleas for sympathy failed to prevent the arrest of illegal immigrants during a joint operation here.
The operation, conducted by officers from the Penang Immigration Department and the National Registration Department (JPN) yesterday, targeted several business premises along Jalan Dato Keramat that are frequented by migrants.
Among the premises inspected were four businesses, including a sundry shop and a grocery store.
State Immigration Department enforcement chief Syamsul Fitry Ahmad said the operation was carried out following public complaints and intelligence gathered by the department.
“We inspected 35 foreign nationals and detained 21 for various immigration offences. Those arrested comprised 15 Indian men, three Bangladeshi men and three Myanmarese men.”
Syamsul Fitry said several of those detained insisted they were merely customers buying goods, while others denied working at the premises.
“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.”
Despite tearful pleas from one of those detained, enforcement officers proceeded with the arrests after finding suspected immigration offences.
Meanwhile, Syamsul Fitry said those found working at the premises were believed to have been employed mainly as shop assistants.
He added that their employment status would be verified through further investigations, including recording statements from their employers.
Commenting on one foreign national who broke down during the operation, Syamsul said such reactions were not uncommon.
“He claimed he worked at a hotel and was only there to buy goods.
“We will verify the claim by recording his statement and checking with his employer before determining whether any offence has been committed.”
Those detained will be sent to the Immigration depot after statements have been recorded from them, their employers and other relevant witnesses.
