Four Chinese nationals with disabilities were detained in Johor, Malaysia, following a two-day operation after they were found begging at night markets and other public areas. The undocumented foreigners, aged between 36 and 67, reportedly earned up to RM10,000 (S$3,107) a month by targeting strategic locations frequented by Malaysians, according to the New Straits Times. They used their physical disabilities to evoke sympathy.
Background
The Malaysian Immigration Department (JIM) conducted the operation on Monday and Tuesday, apprehending the men in separate locations. State JIM director Datuk Mohd Rusdi Mohd Darus confirmed that the men were found without valid documentation and were arrested under the Immigration Act 1959/63 for not possessing valid passes or permits and for overstaying. The operation followed a three-week surveillance by the department’s enforcement division.
Likely a part of syndicate
A state immigration department director stated that the group, consisting of men, was suspected to be part of a syndicate that operated in groups and frequently changed locations to avoid suspicion and detection. Complaints about aggressive tactics in soliciting money were lodged by the public, according to a statement by the authorities. Immigration officers seized more than RM9,000 (S$2,802) from the suspects.
Attempted escape
Between September 23 and 24, one of the suspects attempted to flee to Ipoh, Perak, but was apprehended at the bus terminal. The men were detained following a three-week surveillance by the department’s enforcement division, as reported by Free Malaysia Today.
Legal implications
All four men were arrested under the Immigration Act 1959/63 for not possessing valid passes or permits and for overstaying. The authorities are investigating the possibility of a larger syndicate operation involving disabled individuals to exploit public sympathy for financial gain.
Public reaction and future measures
The public has expressed concern over the aggressive tactics used by the beggars, prompting the authorities to take action. The Malaysian Immigration Department plans to increase surveillance and enforcement to prevent similar incidents in the future. The case highlights the need for stricter immigration controls and better support systems for vulnerable individuals to prevent exploitation.
