Immigration Department dismantles ‘Pade Ajak’ smuggling network, arresting 21 suspects and seizing vehicles in Kuala Selangor operations.
PUTRAJAYA: The Immigration Department has dismantled a migrant smuggling syndicate known as ‘Pade Ajak’ following coordinated raids in Kuala Selangor.
Director-General Datuk Zakaria Shaaban said the syndicate had been actively operating for over two years since early 2023.
Investigations revealed the network involved local agents in Malaysia and a mastermind based in Indonesia.
“The syndicate used social media platforms to offer services to smuggle migrants in and out of the country through ungazetted routes,” he said.
Fees ranged from RM1,500 to RM2,100 per individual, generating an estimated RM504,000 in illegal profits.
The first raid targeted premises used as a transit location for migrants before smuggling to Indonesia.
The property was equipped with living facilities, bathrooms and a kitchen to conceal syndicate activities.
Authorities arrested nine Indonesians comprising seven men and two women aged 20 to 45.
Two male transporters – a Nepalese and an Indonesian – were also detained during the operation.
A Toyota Innova used for migrant transportation was seized as evidence.
The second raid at a nearby two-storey terrace house led to six more Indonesian migrant arrests.
Those detained included three men and three women aged between 22 and 40.
Two housekeepers – an Indonesian woman and Nepalese man – were also taken into custody.
Another 36-year-old Indonesian man, believed to be a main mastermind and transporter, was arrested.
Initial investigations showed migrants were temporarily housed before smuggling via illegal sea routes.
“Most admitted to seeking syndicate services through social media accounts,” Zakaria said.
Authorities also seized a Perodua Alza and cash believed to be smuggling service payments.
The department is tracking local property owners suspected of collaborating with the syndicate.
Property owners rented out premises used as collection centres for illegal migrant movements.
“Individuals will be investigated under the Anti-Trafficking in Persons and Anti-Smuggling of Migrants Act 2007,” he stated.
Operations incorporated approaches to identify potential human trafficking victims among vulnerable groups.
The National Guideline on Human Trafficking Indicators 2.0 guided victim identification procedures. – Bernama
