Immigration authorities in Labuan successfully detained six foreign nationals during a targeted enforcement operation known as "Ops Sapu" in the early hours of Wednesday. The operation, which involved 31 officers, focused on three residential areas and resulted in the arrest of several individuals who failed to produce valid travel documents or work permits. The detainees, all identified as Philippine nationals, have been sent to the Labuan Immigration Depot for further investigation.
This raid is part of a broader national effort to address illegal immigration and ensure that all foreign workers in the country are properly registered. Authorities issued two witness summonses during the operation to assist with ongoing probes into those harboring undocumented individuals. The Labuan Immigration Department has signaled that more unannounced checks will be carried out throughout the month to maintain local security.
Employers and homeowners have been reminded of the legal consequences of hiring or housing undocumented migrants, which can include significant fines and jail time. The government continues to encourage the use of official channels for the legalization of foreign labor to support the local economy while maintaining strict border controls.