ALOR SETAR: Malaysia and Pakistan are currently in discussions to coordinate follow-up actions regarding the detention of 130 Malaysian citizens suspected of being involved in online scam activities in that country.
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said the discussions involve the Bukit Aman Commercial Crime Investigation Department (CCID) and relevant authorities in Pakistan, following confirmation of the detentions by his Pakistani counterpart about two weeks ago.
"About two weeks ago, I received a phone call from my counterpart, the Interior Minister of Pakistan, informing me that a number of Malaysian citizens suspected of being involved in online scam activities had been detained in that country.
"During the same period, the Kedah police also conducted an operation that led to the arrest of 33 Pakistani nationals at the Kulim Hi-Tech Park (KHTP), along with several Indian nationals.
"Consequently, I requested the director of the Bukit Aman CCID to immediately initiate discussions with the relevant departments in Pakistan to coordinate actions regarding this matter," he said.
He was speaking to reporters after attending a ceremony to distribute special financial aid to taxi, rental car and bus drivers in Kedah, which was officiated by Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook here Monday (Nov 2).
Saifuddin Nasution noted that the discussions are ongoing, and he expects to receive a report on the matter to determine the next course of action.
Regarding the 33 Pakistani nationals previously detained in the operation at KHTP, he said they have since been charged in court.
Previously, the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) confirmed that 130 Malaysians were recently detained by Pakistani authorities in Rawalpindi in connection with their involvement in a cybercrime syndicate.
Meanwhile, regarding the position of director-general of the Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS), Saifuddin Nasution said no discussions have taken place yet concerning a successor for Datuk Seri Mohd Shuhaily Mohd Zain.
He noted that any action taken against a civil servant facing investigation and charges must be handled in accordance with established civil service systems and procedures.
"We have not yet held discussions or looked into the matter. In the case of civil servants, when an incident occurs that leads to an investigation and subsequent charges, there is a set system that must be followed, and such matters are managed by the civil service division. That is the process currently underway," he said. - Bernama
