KOTA BARU: The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) in Kelantan faces security risks from smugglers suspected of possessing firearms during operations to curb illegal immigrant smuggling in state waters.
Kelantan MMEA director Maritime Captain Kamal Mohamad said the threat is serious as illegal immigrant smuggling operations grow more cunning and aggressive, especially along the Sungai Kelantan route from Tumpat to Kuala Besar.
He said the route is closely monitored by authorities as syndicates use it to hide illegal immigrants before moving them to other locations.
"Operations to curb these activities face challenges not only from smugglers' evolving tactics but also from the possibility they possess firearms to protect their operations and escape when detected by authorities.
"Therefore, personnel safety remains a top priority during operations, especially when confronting suspects believed to be involved in smuggling activities," he said when contacted by Bernama on Monday (Aug 31).
Kamal said the agency also received information from residents near Sungai Kelantan who were threatened with repercussions for revealing details about smuggling activities and landing sites.
He said this shows syndicates use both maritime and land-based networks to carry out illegal immigrant smuggling.
"Residents near riverways and landing areas play a vital role because they can spot suspicious boat movements early. We understand their safety concerns for themselves and their families when receiving threats from those involved in these activities," he said.
Kamal said syndicates are also willing to spend large amounts, including buying boats with high-powered engines to travel faster and evade authorities. The high-powered engines allow smugglers to move quickly from landing sites to other locations.
"This shows they are willing to spend big because profits from illegal immigrant smuggling are high.
"Based on gathered intelligence, fees charged can reach between RM5,000 and RM25,000 per person for every illegal immigrant brought into Malaysia, depending on the route, destination and services provided by the syndicate," he said.
He added that high profits are a main reason these operations continue despite the risk of arrest.
"Smugglers are typically reckless. Even when pursued by maritime patrol boats and ordered to stop, they continue to speed off despite carrying passengers," he said. – Bernama
