The Kedah Immigration Department has recently found itself in the limelight following an intriguing event at the Malaysian border. Five Malaysian citizens, allegedly connected to Global Ikhwan Services and Business Holdings (GISB), were apprehended while traveling in two motorhomes. The purpose of their visit to the Bukit Kayu Hitam border was to renew their International Circulation Permits (ICPs), which were close to expiring. This event has caught the attention of both local authorities and the general public, sparking a myriad of speculations about the group’s intentions.
In an official statement posted on Facebook, the Kedah Immigration Department clarified that no immigration laws were breached during the incident. However, the department has shown its commitment to thorough investigation by teaming up with the police to delve deeper into GISB’s activities. This coordinated effort underscores the gravity of the situation and the need to ensure nothing is overlooked.
The operations at the border were swift and precise. The department’s enforcement teams were on high alert, ready to act on the tip-off they had received. They located the motorhomes just as they were about to make their exit from Malaysia, marking the beginning of a rigorous inspection process. The five individuals in the vehicles, aged between 29 and 45, were found to be Malaysian citizens. The records revealed their last cross-border journey occurred on August 20 at the same checkpoint.
What adds a layer of complexity to this situation is the identity of one of the individuals apprehended. Allegedly, among the five is the son of a GISB leader, which has intensified media interest. Inspector-General of Police, Tan Sri Razarudin Husain, confirmed that all individuals have been remanded for a week, cementing the seriousness of the investigation.
Upon their arrival at the Bukit Kayu Hitam Immigration, Customs, Quarantine, and Security Complex, the motorhomes went through a detailed examination by the department. Following this, the police took charge for further investigation of one of the detainees, while the others were entrusted to relevant authorities.
The need for permit renewal has been cited as the legitimate reason for the motorhomes’ presence at the border. According to the Road Transport Department (JPJ) regulations, vehicles must be physically present at the border for such renewals. Their chassis and engine numbers were checked to ensure compliance, and the ICP renewal was confirmed to be a three-month process viable only at the JPJ office near the border.
There is another twist, as reports indicate that the vehicles were registered under an individual in Qatar and carried Dubai license plates, with each motorhome’s estimated worth standing at about RM700,000. This information further deepens the mystery, considering GISB’s alleged involvement. The vehicles were set to proceed to GISB Darul Aman after clearing official procedures for an overnight stop.
Social media buzzed with viral posts, suggesting that GISB members might have been attempting to escape to Thailand, possibly with crucial company assets. Such claims have raised alarm bells about the potential removal of critical assets and evidence from Malaysia. Public concern prompted the department to reiterate its commitment to working with other agencies to protect the nation’s interests and border integrity.
This complex intertwining of border regulations, business operations, and immigration procedures involving GISB continues to unravel. Authorities remain vigilant as they strive to piece together the bigger picture, ensuring that no stone is left unturned. This incident not only highlights the importance of border security but also the intricacies and challenges faced by law enforcement in managing cross-border activities seamlessly.