A major immigration enforcement operation in Kuala Lumpur has led to the arrest of 40 foreign nationals following a late-night raid at a three-storey bungalow in an upscale residential enclave.
The property, located in Desa Pahlawan, was allegedly being used as the base of operations for a prostitution syndicate believed to have been active for about six months. Malaysian authorities confirmed that the raid was carried out shortly after midnight on Feb 12.
Officials from Malaysia’s Immigration Department said the operation was spearheaded by its Intelligence and Special Operations division, resulting in the detention of individuals aged between 21 and 43.
Alleged Mastermind Among Those Nabbed
According to statements issued by immigration enforcement officers, one Chinese national is suspected to be the ringleader behind the organised vice activities. He was among those arrested during the swoop.
The breakdown of detainees included 11 Chinese men, 19 Chinese women, five Vietnamese women, two Myanmar women and two Japanese women. Preliminary checks revealed that two of the Chinese men, including the alleged mastermind, possessed valid employment passes.
However, six Chinese men, 19 Chinese women, two Japanese women and five Vietnamese women were reportedly holding only social visit passes. The remaining individuals were said to be without valid travel documentation or permits to remain in Malaysia.
Authorities seized 29 Chinese passports, five Vietnamese passports and two Japanese passports during the operation. In addition, RM26,600 in cash — approximately S$8,618 — believed to be proceeds from the illegal enterprise was confiscated. Two vehicles were also taken into custody as part of the investigation.
High-End Property Allegedly Modified for Vice Activities
Investigators suspect the bungalow had been altered internally to facilitate vice-related services, possibly to evade detection in what is otherwise a quiet, high-end neighbourhood. One of the arrested Chinese men is believed to have acted as a middleman or “salesman”, sourcing clients through online platforms.
The syndicate allegedly targeted both local and foreign customers, charging RM1,000 (about S$324) for 45 minutes and RM3,500 (around S$1,134) for 90 minutes of services. Such pricing suggests the operation was positioned as a premium escort service operating discreetly within a luxury residential setting.
All detainees have since been transferred to the Putrajaya Immigration Office for further investigation under Malaysian law.
In a development of particular interest to Singapore readers, a Singaporean man and a Malaysian man have been served notices requiring them to assist with ongoing investigations. Authorities have not disclosed their roles but indicated that inquiries are continuing.
Malaysian enforcement agencies reiterated their commitment to cracking down on organised crime and illegal vice operations, stressing that firm action would be taken against any activities that threaten public order and national stability.
Top photos from China Press