LUNDU: The General Operations Force (GOF) has arrested 254 individuals, including 69 women, through various operations in the state from January to May 16 this year.
Its commander Datuk Khaw Kok Chin said 222 illegal immigrants were arrested in Ops Awas, Ops Batas and Ops Libas that involved the entire Sarawak brigade, namely 10th Battalion in Lanang, Sibu, 11th Battalion in Batu Kawah, Kuching and 12th Battalion in Miri.
“During this same period we also managed to seize goods worth RM11,329,877.46 in the operations,” he told reporters yesterday after attending the breaking of fast at Op Awas Post in Telok Melano hosted by the GOF 11th Battalion.
Khaw also pointed out that for the past three years from 2017 to May 16 this year, a total of 17 individuals comprising 12 illegal immigrants, including a woman, were arrested with a seizure worth RM1,754,492 for various crime offences such as smuggling of vehicles and drugs.
“The crime rate in Telok Melano is manageable as there is hardly any reports of major crime cases in the area,” he said.
When asked whether there had been an increase in vehicle thefts and smuggling activities since the newly opened road to Telok Melano, Khaw said that the perpetrators would not use the main route but rather opt to use the illegal route.
“They will place the stolen vehicles at an area known to them and will only carry out the smuggling activities when the course is clear.”
Khaw said GOF will not loosen up its security measures along the borders despite the upcoming festive celebrations.
He reminded officers and personnel to uphold high integrity when performing their duties and not get involved in bribery and other forms of corruption as these would tarnish the image of the force.
During the event, Khaw also presented contributions to the needy in conjunction with the Ramadan celebration.
Also present were the head of Intelligence of GOF Sarawak Brigade DSP Saharan Ibrahim and GOF Battalion 11 commanding officer Supt Rosdi Inai.
