Malaysian immigration authorities have detained 396 Bangladeshi nationals during a large-scale overnight crackdown targeting undocumented migrants in Kuala Lumpur.

According to a report by The Straits Times, the operation was conducted late Tuesday night in the Bukit Bintang area — a commercial and nightlife hotspot in the heart of the capital. 

The raid, which lasted only two hours, resulted in the arrest of 770 foreign nationals found without valid documentation or permits.

Over 100 immigration officers took part in the operation. Basri Osman, Director of Immigration Enforcement, confirmed that among the detainees were 396 Bangladeshis, including two women.

The remaining individuals included 235 Myanmar nationals, 72 Nepalese, 58 Indians, 17 Indonesians, and 9 others from various countries.

Osman stated that most of those detained were found to be overstaying, lacking valid papers, or working without official permission, all of which are violations of Malaysian immigration law.

He noted that Bukit Bintang has long been a known hotspot for undocumented migrants due to its central location and nightlife appeal. The operation was launched following three weeks of surveillance, he added.

Legal action is now underway against those detained, in accordance with the country’s immigration laws.

SMS/