11 Locals Rounded Up In Raid
By Izam S. Ya'akub & Azaraimy HH

Bandar Seri Begawan - Eleven foreign nationals were apprehended and brought in for questioning for failing to produce any personal identification and relevant documentation during raids codenamed 'Ops Basmi 93' conducted early yesterday morning.

One of the immigration offenders, a Bangladeshi national, was found to be in close proximity with a 21-year-old local woman. Despite his best effort to evade capture, and the woman's efforts to divert attention from a concealed window, immigration personnel managed to discover his hiding place, which was inside a wooden box in an unlit storeroom.

The Bangladeshi national was slapped with a $500 bond for religious offence and $100 compound fine for the immigration violation. The two reportedly tried to marry abroad but failed to obtain permission.

The local woman's case has also been referred to the Religious Affairs for having a relationship with the man for two years without a marital certificate.

Meanwhile, four other individuals, three from the Philippines and an Indonesian were also found to be in breach of Section 15 (1) of the Immigration Act after they were caught without valid immigration documents.

One of the Filipino woman was given a special pass after officials gave due consideration as she had given birth on November 26. However, as a surety her husband's passport has been temporarily withheld and was also given a special pass. Her name has been listed in an index so as not to allow her to work under a visitor pass.

The Senior Head of Immigration, Law Enforcement Division said Immigration officials will continue to be vigilant in their efforts to enforce laws and regulations of the country and will continue to monitor and investigate suspected sites with the involvement of other government agencies if required.

People who wish to provide information regarding immigration offences can do so by calling the Immigration Department Hotline 2383555, 2383777, or 3331879.  -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

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