Kuala lumpur: The Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS) is in urgent need of approximately 400 investigation officers to bolster its operational and enforcement capabilities nationwide, as stated by its director-general, Datuk Seri Mohd Shuhaily Mohd Zain. This estimate is part of AKPS's long-term goal to perform its own investigation and prosecution functions independently.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Mohd Shuhaily highlighted the challenge of training these officers with the current workforce and new recruits. He emphasized the necessity of expertise from the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) to enhance the efficiency of AKPS's investigation, operations, and prosecution processes.

PDRM's expertise is seen as crucial for the rapid development of AKPS's capabilities. The agency aspires to manage its investigations and prosecutions internally. Presently, AKPS has a small team of public prosecuting officers who primarily focus on legal advisory roles.

The strategic decision to assign senior PDRM officer Datuk Nik Ezanee Mohd Faisal as AKPS Commander of the Port Klang Entry Gate has yielded significant results, including the uncovering of illegal electronic waste importation activities. Mohd Shuhaily noted that having a senior police officer in such a position prioritizes investigative approaches.

AKPS is collaborating with several agencies, including the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission, the Royal Malaysia Police, and the Department of Environment, to strengthen efforts against illegal activities at the nation's entry points. Mohd Shuhaily stressed that the responsibility for operations and enforcement at ports is shared among multiple agencies, with leadership extending beyond AKPS.