Records of conversations, transactions and catalogues believed to have been used to offer women’s services to customers were uncovered during a raid at two entertainment centres in Pudu on Saturday.
The Immigration Department of Malaysia (JIM) said the operation, known as Op Gegar, was conducted by its Enforcement Division at around 4am following public complaints and two weeks of intelligence gathering.
The operation resulted in the arrest of 17 foreign nationals, including seven women, who were suspected of committing offences under the Immigration Act 1959/63 and the Immigration Regulations 1963.
“The detainees comprised individuals from Indonesia, Bangladesh and Myanmar.
“JIM also issued seven summonses to local witnesses to assist with the investigation process,” the department said in a statement on Sunday.
During further checks, officers discovered records of conversations, financial transactions and catalogues stored in a mobile phone belonging to one of the detainees, which were believed to have been used to promote women’s services to customers.
JIM said a married couple from Indonesia, who were allegedly involved in managing the activities, were subsequently detained to assist with investigations.
The operation also led to the seizure of various brands of alcoholic beverages worth RM11,420.31, involving estimated tax amounting to RM26,380.31. The seized items were handed over to the Kuala Lumpur International Airport Customs Enforcement Division for further action.
JIM stressed that it would continue taking firm action against foreigners who reside illegally, overstay or misuse their immigration passes in Malaysia.
The department also warned that strict action would be taken against any individuals or parties found employing or protecting illegal immigrants.
