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103 foreign nationals detained in Manjung smuggling attempt

Malaysian authorities have apprehended 103 foreign nationals attempting to enter or leave the country illegally via speedboat along the Manjung coastline. The group was intercepted during an operation by enforcement officials.

LSN Malaysia · 19 August 2026

103 foreign nationals detained in Manjung smuggling attempt

A total of 103 foreign nationals have been held after authorities foiled an alleged human smuggling operation in Manjung. According to the Director of the Bukit Aman Immigration headquarters, the group was attempting to be smuggled either into or out of Malaysia using speedboats through coastal waters in the Perak district.

The interception represents a significant enforcement success against transnational smuggling networks that have increasingly targeted Malaysia's extensive coastline. The Manjung area, situated along the Strait of Malacca, has been identified as a vulnerable entry and exit point for irregular migration activities.

The detained foreign nationals are currently undergoing processing and investigation by relevant authorities. Initial reports indicate the operation involved coordination between immigration enforcement and maritime patrol units operating in the region.

The case underscores ongoing challenges faced by Malaysian law enforcement in combating organized smuggling operations. Authorities have intensified coastal patrols and intelligence gathering to disrupt trafficking networks moving migrants through Southeast Asia.