Kuala lumpur: Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail has confirmed that no Malaysians were recruited into a foreign militant network linked to Bangladeshi nationals, which was recently uncovered by authorities. He stated that investigations by the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) Special Branch revealed the group, which aimed to spread extremist ideology rooted in Islamic State (IS) beliefs, involved only Bangladeshi nationals. The group’s activities were centered around violent extremism with the objective of toppling the government in Bangladesh.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Saifuddin was speaking to reporters after launching the Kampung Angkat MADANI and Sekolah Angkat MADANI programmes under the People’s Volunteer Corps (RELA) 2025 initiative at the Hulu Terengganu District Council Hall. He emphasized the importance of public awareness regarding the vigilance of security forces, highlighting that unaddressed extremist activities could pose a serious threat to national security.
Saifuddin disclosed that police dismantled the foreign militant network with the arrest of 36 Bangladeshi nationals suspected of direct involvement in the radical movement. These arrests were executed in a three-phase security operation in Selangor and Johor starting April 24.
In a separate development, Saifuddin announced that the National Scam Response Centre (NSRC) will soon undergo restructuring to enhance its effectiveness, with the Royal Malaysia Police leading the efforts, supported by other key agencies. He noted that previously, the NSRC’s oversight was shared among four agencies, leading to operational shortcomings.
Under the new structure, the police will directly receive scam reports, record necessary details, and notify relevant banks immediately to freeze the victim’s account. Efforts to recover stolen funds will follow promptly. The restructuring will also enable the NSRC’s 997 hotline to operate 24 hours a day, increasing staff to improve response time and victim support.
Saifuddin added that these proposed improvements have been approved by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and will be implemented soon.