Malaysia’s Immigration Department detained 528 foreign nationals in a nationwide operation called Ops Sasar from August 25 to 27 over alleged immigration-law violations. The department said the campaign was conducted using public complaints, available information and intelligence surveillance. A total of 678 foreign nationals were questioned and checked during the three-day operation.

The Putrajaya Immigration Department also conducted raids at two locations: a construction site in Jalan Wangsamaju, Setapak, and a business establishment in Dato Keramat. Officials checked 83 foreign nationals at those sites and detained 73 for alleged immigration offences, including 30 Bangladeshis, 37 Indonesians and two Nepalis.

The detainees also included one national each from Togo, Burkina Faso, Myanmar and India. JIM said most of those arrested were working when the operation took place, and some attempted to flee after noticing law-enforcement personnel. Allegations include lacking identity cards or valid immigration documents, overstaying approved periods and working without valid permission. The department said action would be taken under relevant immigration-law provisions.