Kuala Lumpur: Fifteen Bangladeshi men who tried to enter the country by posing as members of a cricket team were detained during an inspection at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) yesterday.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS) reported that the group attempted to deceive the agency’s officers by wearing cricket sports uniforms and presenting a tournament organisation letter. However, the investigation found that the letter allegedly issued by the Penang Cricket Association was fake.

“No cricket tournament is scheduled to take place from March 21 to March 23, 2025,” stated a press release issued today. AKPS noted increased suspicion when they attempted to secure a sponsor as a guarantor. The purported guarantor admitted to having no information about the cricket tournament and was present merely as a company representative.

Further inspection revealed no solid evidence that the individuals were genuine cricketers. It is likely they are part of a syndicate attempting to disguise themselves to enter Malaysia for other purposes. The agency has decided that the group will not be permitted to land (NTL) and will take further action according to applicable immigration regulations.

AKPS warns that strict action will be taken against individuals or syndicates who misuse sports visas for purposes such as illegal work or human trafficking.