Bukit beruntung: The Immigration Department has discovered a strategy employed by illegal immigrants who work in urban centers but choose to rent homes in rural areas to avoid detection by enforcement agencies. This tactic was highlighted during a recent operation in Bukit Beruntung, Selangor.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Selangor Immigration Department director Khairrul Aminus Kamaruddin explained that the operation focused on an old apartment complex where many tenants commute up to 65 kilometers daily for work. The low rental costs, ranging from RM400 to RM600, and the camaraderie among fellow countrymen are primary reasons these foreign workers opt for rural living, often residing in groups with family or documented compatriots.

Director Khairrul detailed that most illegal immigrants lived in family groups of four to six, while single workers shared accommodations in groups of six to seven. These individuals were employed in various sectors such as security and construction in urban areas like Kuala Lumpur. The operation, conducted from 8:30 pm to 1:00 am, involved the collaboration of the National Anti-Drug Agency, the National Registration Department, and the Hulu Selangor Municipal Council, screening a total of 188 foreign nationals.

Out of those screened, 73 individuals were arrested for suspected immigration offenses. The detainees included 26 Pakistani men, 19 Myanmar men, six Bangladeshi men, four Nepalese men, one Indian man, and 17 Pakistani individuals. The majority lacked valid travel documents and are being investigated under Section 6(1)(c) of the Immigration Act 1959/63, while some are suspected of overstaying their visas under Section 15(1)(c).

All arrested foreign nationals were transported to the Semenyih Immigration Detention Centre for further investigation. The operation followed complaints from local residents about disturbances allegedly caused by some foreigners, including excessive noise and public drinking.