Pahang: The Pahang Immigration Department detained 228 foreigners, including seven children, suspected of committing various immigration offences during Ops Sasar in Jerantut, Rompin and Kuantan yesterday.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Pahang Immigration director Nursafariza Ihsan stated that the detainees were nationals from Bangladesh, Indonesia, Myanmar, Nepal, Cambodia, Pakistan, and Vietnam. The group comprised 212 men and 16 women, all aged between four and 51.

Investigations are currently in the preliminary stages, with authorities in the process of documenting the cases and verifying the identities and documents of each foreigner. Among the suspected offences are not possessing valid travel documents, breaching pass conditions, overstaying, and other violations under the Immigration Act 1959 and related regulations.

The operation, led by 52 immigration officers, targeted workers' quarters and settlements located in plantations, estates, and construction sites. Nursafariza stated that all detainees will be transferred to the Kemayan Immigration Depot for further investigation and necessary actions.

The operation, which took place from 12.05 am to 11 am yesterday, faced some challenges as some foreigners attempted to escape during the raids. While some individuals were successfully detained, others managed to flee into plantation areas. Despite some resistance, no injuries were reported during the operation.