KOTA BARU: Human trafficking syndicates along the Malaysia–Thailand border have changed their modus operandi, using isolated islands in Tumpat as landing points to smuggle illegal immigrants into the country.
Kelantan police chief Datuk Mohd Yusoff Mamat said police have so far identified three islands frequently used by syndicate members — Pulau Tengkorak, Pulau Suri and Pulau Ular.
He said investigations showed the syndicates were actively smuggling undocumented migrants into Kelantan using sea routes to avoid detection at official entry points and land borders.
“This is the latest tactic employed by human trafficking syndicates to bring illegal immigrants into Malaysia, particularly through the Kelantan border.
“They are now using sea routes to ferry illegal immigrants into the country.
“So far, we have identified three islands that are popular with these syndicates,” he said.
Mohd Yusoff said all the islands are located in remote and secluded areas, with some concealed by thick undergrowth, making them difficult to detect from patrol routes.
He said the syndicates began shifting operations to the islands after enforcement agencies demolished illegal jetties along the border, disrupting traditional smuggling routes used to ferry illegal immigrants.
“Intensified enforcement in recent years including the demolition of illegal jetties, increased patrols and joint operations involving multiple agencies — has forced human trafficking syndicates to constantly change their tactics.
“The syndicates are also rely on local residents as boatmen and smugglers, while hiring tonto to act as lookouts to monitor the movements of enforcement agencies along the border,” he said.
Kelantan, particularly areas along the Sungai Golok and coastal stretches in Tumpat, has long been a hotspot for cross-border smuggling activities due to its extensive river network, porous borders and close proximity to southern Thailand.
Smuggling syndicates have historically exploited river routes, illegal jetties and unmonitored coastal areas to bring in illegal immigrants, contraband and other goods into the country.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
