Sungai golok: A total of 52 Malaysians were among 116 individuals detained for attempting to cross the Malaysia-Thailand border illegally via Sungai Golok from December last year until October this year. General Operations Force (PGA) Southeast Brigade acting commander ACP Ijid Landu Binju said the arrests were made during enforcement operations at several 'hotspots' along the border in Tumpat and Pasir Mas.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the individuals detained were investigated under Section 5(2) of the Immigration Act 1959/63 for entering or leaving the country via illegal routes. "Since the enforcement of the ban on illegal border crossings in December last year, a total of 116 arrests have been made. Of this number, 52 are Malaysians while the rest are from Thailand, Myanmar, India, China, and Pakistan," he told reporters after inspecting an illegal jetty here today.

Ijid stated that the PGA has identified seven hotspots for illegal border crossings, namely Gergaji, Abe Yie, Pohon Jambu, Syed Agil, Tanjong, Kuala Jambu and Azizah illegal jetties. "PGA has stationed personnel at these locations and monitors the area to prevent unauthorised border crossing attempts. We are aware that some persist in crossing Sungai Golok despite the ban, and strict action will be taken against anyone who violates the law," he said.

Meanwhile, the PGA is expected to receive new Guardian 4x4 Armoured Personnel Carriers (APC) to strengthen its capabilities in border operations and provide better protection for its personnel. He said the APCs are undergoing physical testing in several operational areas, including the Northern Brigade, Martek Op Taring Wawasan Kelantan and Muar, Johor.

"The tests aim to assess the vehicle's effectiveness and the ability of our personnel to operate the APC. Each APC, valued at RM2.67 million, can carry a driver, a crew member, and six infantry personnel, protecting against small-arms fire and ambush threats," he added. Ijid said the vehicles are expected to boost personnel morale and have a psychological impact on criminals attempting to breach the country's border.