Gua musang: Three foreign men were arrested on suspicion of carrying out illegal gold mining activities in an oil palm plantation in Sungai Seting, Gua Musang, in an integrated operation that began as early as 5.30 am yesterday. Federal Reserve Unit (FRU) Commander, SAC Rosli Md Yusof, stated that the suspects, aged in their 30s, included two Myanmar nationals and an Indonesian.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the operation, which was the result of intelligence gathered by Bukit Aman FRU and Kota Bharu Land and Mines Office (PTG), successfully disrupted the illegal gold mining operation. The suspects were unable to provide valid travel documents. Authorities seized a hydraulic excavator valued at nearly RM450,000, along with several mining machines and equipment, bringing the total value of seized items to approximately RM510,021.

The case is currently being investigated under Section 6(1)(c) of the Immigration Act 1959/63 and Section 425 of the National Land Code 1965. The suspects have been handed over to the police for further action, and the confiscated items were transferred to the Kelantan PTG.

Rosli highlighted that the operation exemplifies the implementation of bureaucratic reforms focused on an integrated approach, involving various agencies to combat illegal mining activities. He affirmed the commitment of the PDRM, alongside other enforcement agencies, to intensify such operations to preserve the country's natural resources.

He emphasized that these integrated actions not only reinforce enforcement but also deliver a strong message that authorities will rigorously address attempts to exploit natural resources unlawfully.