Kelantan police say smugglers and illegal immigrants are now using small rivers and sea routes to bypass stricter border security along Sungai Golok
KOTA BHARU: Stricter security controls and the closure of illegal bases along the Sungai Golok border have prompted smuggling syndicates to change their modus operandi, shifting to waterways and coastal areas to continue their activities.
Kelantan police chief Datuk Mohd Yusoff Mamat said the latest tactic was detected after groups of smugglers and illegal immigrants were found entering the state via small rivers in Tumpat, which are directly connected to Sungai Kelantan.
Speaking at a press conference after the Kelantan Contingent Monthly Assembly here today, he said that, in addition to border districts such as Tumpat, Pasir Mas, Tanah Merah and Jeli, the syndicate had also been using sea routes from Kuala Besar via Pengkalan Chepa to Tok Bali as a new transit route.
Following the threat, Mohd Yusoff said all district police headquarters (IPD), including those in districts that do not directly border neighbouring areas such as Bachok and Pasir Puteh, had been directed to step up intelligence operations.
“Cross-border crime in Kelantan is now being given serious attention by the government to prevent leakage, especially involving fuel, which is feared to be smuggled to neighbouring countries.
“All IPDs must strengthen their intelligence capabilities. Regardless of whether it is the Special Branch or other units, each must play a role, as weak intelligence will result in fewer arrests,” he said.
Mohd Yusoff also issued a stern warning to any officers and police personnel against conspiring with or becoming lackeys of cross-border smuggling syndicates.
He stressed that there would be no compromise for any officers and police personnel found to be involved in corruption, leaking information or any misconduct that could affect the integrity, credibility and public trust in the force.
Commenting on the operational achievements of Kelantan police, including the General Operations Force (GOF), Mohd Yusoff said a total of 375 cases involving contraband were recorded, with seizures valued at RM10.18 million and 212 arrests made between January and April this year.
“During the same period, 135 cases involving the misappropriation of subsidised goods were recorded, involving seizures worth RM215,725 and 70 arrests.
“The police also arrested 102 immigrants from various countries, as well as 47 individuals who acted as transporters in cross-border activities,” he said.
Meanwhile, to ensure smooth traffic flow and public safety remain under control throughout the holiday and festive season, Mohd Yusoff encouraged the public to make use of utilise the “Balik Kampung” feature in the Volunteer Smartphone Patrol application.
He said the move would assist police in carrying out patrols in houses left vacant during the period.
