LUBOK ANTU: A local man wanted for alleged involvement in a human trafficking case was arrested on Tuesday (Nov 21) following a tipoff from the public.
Police had issued a statement issued on Monday (Nov 20), seeking public help to locate 28-year-old Jeffrey Tarang.
Lubok Antu police chief DSP Victor Ripon said the suspect is wanted to assist in a case under Section 26A of the Anti-Trafficking in Persons and Anti-Smuggling of Migrants (Atipsom) Act 2007 and Section 6(1)(c) of the Immigration Act 1959/63.
“The suspect was arrested at 8.30 pm on Tuesday after he was believed to be hiding in Batu Kawa and Lubok Antu.
“He was then taken to the Sarawak Contingent police headquarters (IPK) for further confirmation under Section 4(5) of the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act 2021 (SOSMA).
“This procedure allows the investigating officer adequate time to conduct a thorough investigation and submit papers to the Attorney General’s Department for prosecution,” he said.
If found guilty of smuggling migrants under Section 26A of Atipsom 2007, the offender could face up to 20 years in prison, a fine or both.
Victor urged the public to cooperate in curbing human trafficking and migrant smuggling crimes by channelling information to the police.
“There will be no compromise on anyone involved in such crimes in an effort to address threats to national sovereignty, security and public order,” he warned.
