The Immigration Department is intensifying its operational strategies to combat ‘tonto’ informant syndicates that leak enforcement plans, hampering efforts against illegal immigration.
PUTRAJAYA: The Immigration Department has further tightened its operational strategies to curb the activities of middlemen syndicates, known as ‘tonto’. Director-General Datuk Zakaria Shaaban stated that continuous monitoring is conducted as these informant networks undermine enforcement efforts at all levels.
He explained that tonto activities are a significant factor in the failure of certain operations. Information on enforcement team movements is often leaked in advance, allowing targeted parties to evade capture.
“Whenever we carry out any operation, we will plan our strategies carefully to avoid being detected by the tonto,” Zakaria told reporters after a programme here. He emphasised that strategies are organised so that movements cannot be predicted by anyone.
He added that even among department officers, not everyone is aware of operational movements and strategies. This secrecy is a key tactic to prevent information leaks from within.
When asked if tonto activities contributed to the influx of illegal immigrants, Zakaria said there were many contributing factors. However, he confirmed that such syndicates do hamper enforcement efforts to some extent.
“Tonto activities to some extent hamper our enforcement efforts. When they obtain early information about our movements, it causes our operations to fail,” he added. If individuals involved in such activities are identified, reports will be lodged with relevant enforcement agencies for further action.
The issue follows media reports that the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission uncovered a list of enforcement officers suspected of receiving bribes from tonto syndicates. Zakaria noted that the issue is not new and is also faced by other enforcement agencies in the country.
