KUCHING: Five undocumented Indonesian immigrants were deported back after their attempts to enter Sarawak illegally last Tuesday were foiled.
The First Infantry Division disclosed there were four incidents of immigrants attempting to enter Sarawak between 12.40pm and 5.30pm at the Malaysia – Indonesia border.
The first incident happened at 12.40pm in the Balai Ringin sector where a patrol team managed to detain two Indonesians trying to enter Sarawak illegally. The duo did not have any identification documents on them.
Meanwhile, the second incident occurred in the Lubuk Antu sector where a patrol team found three unattended bags filled with clothes near a palm tree.
It was suspected to be left there by illegal immigrants who fled the scene upon seeing the patrol team.
The third incident happened at 3pm, also in the Balai Ringin sector, where three more Indonesians were detained after being spotted suspiciously walking towards Sarawak from the direction of Indonesia’s international border.
After being examined and interrogated, the trio said they were on their way to Serian town.
The fourth incident occurred in the Tebedu sector where patrol personnel found 10 unattended sacks full of clothes, makeup, medicines and spices left in an empty house.
The items estimated to be worth around RM 17,500 were confiscated.
The army said continuous monitoring would be conducted in the areas to ensure no further intrusion or attempted entry into the state.
“Cases of intrusion and attempted smuggling of goods at the Sarawak – Kalimantan is increasing.
“Therefore, enforcement agencies especially the Malaysian Army is always ready and alert, and will not compromise with those who try to commit crimes and cross the country’s borders,” the army said.
