How Did Malaysian Police Save Three Bangladeshi Victims of Human Trafficking?
Synopsis
In a dramatic rescue operation, Malaysian Police saved three Bangladeshi nationals believed to be victims of forced labor in Hulu Terengganu. This incident highlights the ongoing battle against human trafficking in the region, as authorities intensify their efforts to combat such crimes.
Key Takeaways
Three Bangladeshi nationals rescued from human trafficking.
Operation Pintas initiated by Royal Malaysia Police .
Victims faced harsh conditions, including forced labor.
Suspect arrested under ATIPSOM laws.
Community involvement is key in tackling human trafficking.
Kuala Lumpur, Feb 10 (NationPress) The Malaysian Police successfully rescued three Bangladeshi individuals from a construction site in the Hulu Terengganu area as part of 'Operation Pintas', according to local news reports.
The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) initiated Operation Pintas on January 28, launching a focused effort against human trafficking.
Superintendent Sharudin Abdul Wahab, the police chief of Hulu Terengganu district, reported that the raid took place on the evening of February 8 and involved the Terengganu police contingent's Criminal Investigation Department (CID) D7 division, alongside the district police headquarters.
During the operation, a 46-year-old local man, believed to be the employer of the three Bangladeshi men aged between 29 and 44, was arrested.
“The police rescued three Bangladeshi men who are suspected victims of forced labor. Preliminary investigations revealed they had been working as construction laborers with irregular hours and had not received any pay for five months. Consequently, they resorted to fishing and gathering forest produce around Tasik Kenyir for sustenance,” quoted Sharudin as reported by the Malaysian National News Agency Bernama.
Investigations indicated that the suspect had failed to provide appropriate housing and had confiscated the victims' passports and work permits.
Sharudin mentioned that once the application for an Interim Protection Order (IPO) is finalized, the victims will undergo medical examinations.
“This case is being investigated under Sections 44 and 12 of the Anti-Trafficking in Persons and Anti-Smuggling of Migrants Act (ATIPSOM) 2007. The police take human trafficking offenses very seriously and will continue to take decisive action. We encourage the public to come forward with any information that could assist the investigation,” he stated.
Last year, the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) arrested 36 Bangladeshi nationals for their connections to a radical movement promoting extremist beliefs linked to the Islamic State (IS).
As per Malaysia's Ministry of Home Affairs, the planned security operation targeting Bangladeshis commenced on April 24, 2025, and unfolded in three phases across the states of Selangor and Johor.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the relentless efforts of the Malaysian Police in combating human trafficking. This incident underscores the importance of vigilance and community involvement in addressing such serious issues. The public's role in reporting suspicious activities is vital in ensuring justice.
NationPress
21 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Operation Pintas?
Operation Pintas is an initiative launched by the Royal Malaysia Police to combat human trafficking and forced labor.
How many Bangladeshi nationals were rescued?
Three Bangladeshi nationals were rescued during the operation.
What charges will the suspect face?
The suspect will be investigated under Sections 44 and 12 of the Anti-Trafficking in Persons and Anti-Smuggling of Migrants Act (ATIPSOM) 2007.
Where did the rescue take place?
The rescue took place at a construction site in the Hulu Terengganu region of Malaysia.
What conditions were the victims living under?
The victims had not been paid for five months and were forced to seek food through fishing and foraging.
