27-3-2024 (KUALA LUMPUR) In a decisive strike against online fraud, Malaysian authorities have dismantled an international scam syndicate operating from the heart of Kuala Lumpur’s luxury real estate. The Immigration Department’s raid on a high-end condominium along Jalan U-Thant has culminated in the arrest of six foreign nationals, dealing a crippling blow to the nefarious activities of this criminal enterprise.
The successful operation, which unfolded on Monday (April 25) around 4.30 pm, was precipitated by a complaint alleging the presence of foreign-operated call centers within the lavish residential complex. Responding swiftly, a formidable task force comprising 36 personnel from the Kuala Lumpur Immigration Department and the Immigration Department Putrajaya Special Tactical Force descended upon the scene.
“We raided several condominium units there and inspected the documentation of 28 individuals,” revealed Wan Mohammed Saupee Wan Yusoff, the director of the Kuala Lumpur Immigration Department, in a statement issued on Wednesday (March 27). The meticulous sweep yielded the apprehension of six foreign nationals, ranging in age from 35 to 57, hailing from China and Myanmar.
The detainees now face a litany of charges stemming from their alleged involvement in various offenses related to the illicit online operation. Furthermore, the authorities have issued a summons to the condominium’s owner, compelling their cooperation in the ongoing investigation.
Wan Mohammed Saupee disclosed that the authorities harbor strong suspicions that multiple condominium units were repurposed as scam call centers, facilitating fraudulent online investment schemes. The raid yielded a trove of incriminating evidence, including laptops, computer screens, tablets, mobile phones, routers, and a staggering cache of 11 passports.
“Those involved managed to escape through a window when they realized that our personnel were at the scene,” Wan Mohammed Saupee recounted, underscoring the syndicate’s desperate bid to evade justice. However, their efforts proved futile, as the six apprehended individuals now find themselves remanded at the Bukit Jalil Immigration Depot, awaiting the full weight of the law.
In a stern warning to those who might contemplate harboring or enabling such illicit activities, Wan Mohammed Saupee emphasized the authorities’ unwavering resolve. “We wish to remind premises owners and employers that stern action will be taken against those who protect illegal immigrants and allow them to use their premises,” he declared.
