THE General Operations Force (PGA) will deploy its personnel as a security and logistical support element during the upcoming demolition of 153 illegal jetties along Sungai Golok, a known hotspot for cross-border criminal activity.
While not directly involved in the demolition, PGA's Southeast Brigade Acting Commander, Assistant Commissioner of Police Ijid Landu Binju, confirmed that officers would be positioned in the area as a precautionary measure in case of disruptions.
“Although the demolition is under the jurisdiction of the respective district land offices in Tumpat, Pasir Mas, and Jeli, with implementation by local authorities, it is our duty to act as a support element. Typically, this includes providing manpower and logistical assistance,” said Ijid.
“Moreover, since these illegal jetties fall within PGA’s area of responsibility, we must be kept informed and ready to respond,” he added.
Kelantan Police Chief Datuk Mohd Yusoff Mamat previously announced that the illegal structures would be dismantled in phases beginning this week, starting in Pasir Mas before moving on to the other affected districts.
The jetties, built without official approval, have long been used as conduits for cross-border smuggling and other illicit activity between Malaysia and southern Thailand.
Ijid also revealed that five jetties in Rantau Panjang have been identified as active smuggling hubs, with 72 cross-border crime cases recorded to date. These are located at Pohon Jambu, Awang Belulang, Gergaji, Kerdap, and Lan Bundle.
“These locations are hotspots because the jetties are built on private land and offer vehicle parking facilities,” he said.
He also highlighted that since the introduction of the BUDI MADANI RON95 fuel subsidy scheme (BUDI95) in late September, authorities have recorded 12 smuggling-related cases involving two arrests. These incidents occurred at Kedap and Miji jetties in Rantau Panjang.
“The methods remain largely unchanged – petrol is smuggled in modified vehicle tanks or plastic containers,” he said.
The demolition of illegal jetties is seen as a necessary step to clamp down on rampant cross-border crime and restore order along the porous border area. - October 19, 2025
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