Kuala Lumpur, El Sky News – A forced labour exploitation syndicate actively operating in the Klang Valley has finally been brought down after the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) Anti-Trafficking in Persons and Anti-Smuggling of Migrants Division (D3 Atipsom) launched a massive raid, rescuing 43 foreign women who were forced to work as cleaners under oppressive conditions.
The victims, aged between 20 and 43, consist of Indonesian and Cambodian nationals. Authorities believe these women were exploited through a forced labour scheme by a cleaning service company operating around the Cheras area.
19 Suspects Detained, Including the Mastermind
In separate raids, the police successfully arrested 19 suspects – involving 18 men and one woman – who are believed to have played a role in the syndicate. Among those detained include:
- The owner and manager of the cleaning company.
- Individuals who acted as hostel/worker dormitory caretakers.
- Drivers responsible for transporting the victims to work locations.
It is understood that the majority of the suspects are foreign nationals, while several others are locals believed to be the masterminds behind this exploitation operation.
“Our preliminary investigation found that the main issues in this case are related to salary payment and working environment that lead to forced labour exploitation. We are delving deeper into the extent of this oppression,” said a PDRM spokesperson.
Salary Issues and Forced Labour Are the Focus
According to sources, although most of the victims possessed valid travel documents, they were allegedly trapped in a work system that restricted their freedom of movement and resulted in the denial of their rightful wages. These conditions are classified as exploitation under the definition of forced labour.
All victims are now under the protection of the authorities and were rescued under the provisions of the Anti-Trafficking in Persons and Anti-Smuggling of Migrants Act 2007 (Act 670).
The suspects, on the other hand, are being investigated under Section 12 of the same Act, which stipulates severe penalties for the offense of trafficking in persons.
National Commitment to Combat Atipsom Crime
This operation demonstrates the firm commitment of Malaysian authorities to combat the crime of trafficking in persons (Atipsom) and protect the rights of legitimate foreign workers. PDRM warns that uncompromising action will be taken against any company or individual attempting to profit by oppressing and exploiting migrant workers.
