Bukit Mertajam MP Steven Sim has urged police to conduct a thorough investigation into the suspected human trafficking syndicate uncovered in Berapit, Bukit Mertajam, to ensure those responsible are brought to justice.
The Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Minister praised the successful operation carried out by police, particularly the Seberang Perai Tengah District Police Headquarters and Bukit Aman, saying it demonstrated the authorities’ commitment in tackling cross-border criminal activities.
Steven Sim said enforcement agencies must continue strengthening monitoring and enforcement efforts as human trafficking and scam syndicates have become increasingly complex and organised.
“I would like to express my appreciation and congratulate the police. At the same time, I urge the police and the Home Ministry to intensify enforcement and surveillance efforts to curb increasingly sophisticated human trafficking and scam syndicates,” he said in a statement.
He added that the Bukit Mertajam MP’s service centre would continue monitoring developments in the case and cooperate with relevant agencies, including police and the Immigration Department, to improve preventive measures.
The call comes after Penang police uncovered a suspected human trafficking and exploitation operation during a raid in Berapit on Friday.
Penang Police Chief Datuk Dennis Lim said the operation led to the rescue of a 25-year-old woman from Cameroon who was believed to have been confined and exploited by the syndicate.
Police also arrested a Taiwanese man believed to be the employer and operator of the syndicate, along with 29 foreign nationals, including nine women, who were unable to provide valid travel or identification documents.
Authorities are expected to continue investigations to identify the full extent of the syndicate’s activities and determine whether more individuals were involved.
