THE Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) has identified cases where victims of human trafficking have been threatened by criminal syndicates, leading them to refuse cooperation with authorities.
Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain said fear among migrant victims—many of whom are coerced or intimidated—continues to hinder efforts to gather vital information and conduct thorough investigations.
“The victims’ reluctance to testify due to threats from the syndicates presents significant difficulties in the investigation process,” he said on Saturday.
He added that the use of false identities and the involvement of fake employment agents further complicate the identification of victims.
“Additionally, PDRM faces challenges in securing Malaysia’s extensive land and maritime borders, especially through ‘rat routes’ often used by traffickers to smuggle migrants,” Razarudin noted.
He said these syndicates also exploit forged documents such as fake passports and visas to facilitate illegal entry.
“These are well-organised, transnational syndicates with broad networks, making investigations more complex and requiring international collaboration for intelligence sharing and coordinated operations,” he added.
Despite these hurdles, Razarudin reaffirmed PDRM’s commitment to tackling migrant smuggling operations.
“This includes arresting those organising migrant entries, as well as skippers, agents, and individuals providing shelter for undocumented migrants,” he said.
Since 2023, approximately 12 syndicates have been dismantled and prosecuted under the Anti-Trafficking in Persons and Anti-Smuggling of Migrants Act 2007, according to Razarudin. - April 19, 2025
