Foreign Hawkers Netted In Water Village
By Azaraimy HH

Bandar Seri Begawan - Two illegal foreign hawkers were detained yesterday, while a third suspect managed to escape from a team of immigration officers patrolling Brunei waters.

The two suspects, a Malaysian man and an Indian man, were caught in Kg Batu Marang and Kg Burong Pingai Ayer respectively.

They were reportedly in the country on a visit pass which bars them from either working here or carrying out any business activities.

During the operation codenamed 'Ops BASMI 98 /2005' led by Senior Immigration Officer, Sabtu B. Hj Alim, the Malaysian suspect, aged 47, was caught carrying fruits on his boat. Initially he told the immigration patrol team that he was in Brunei to attend a wedding ceremony to be held this Sunday in Kg Serasa.

However, later the enforcement officers spotted the suspect selling fruits to village residents. He was given a special pass but could be slapped with a $600 compound if found guilty.

Meanwhile, the Indian suspect, aged 23, was caught at Kg Burong Pingai Ayer while allegedly hawking his wares on foot. He reportedly tried to flee and hid in one of the houses after he realised that immigration officers were patrolling the waters.

With the help of the houseowner, the suspect was eventually caught but he was able to throw away his goods before his detention.

Meanwhile, another foreign national was able to escape from the patrol team by jumping and `disappearing' into the river at Kg Bolkiah `A' housing area. He left his goods behind.

In a statement, the immigration authorities urged local fishermen to carry their personal identification or IC to assist the government enforcement agencies which are conducting the inspections.

According to the statement, there are still quite number of people supporting illegal foreign hawkers by buying their items or foods.

The Department of Immigration and National Registration expressed its thanks to the public and kampung residents for their cooperation in maintaining the safety of the country.  -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

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