POLICE arrested 96,844 foreign nationals for various criminal offences in Malaysia between 2024 and September this year, with arrests increasing by 10.9 per cent last year.
Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Mohd Khalid Ismail said police arrested 33,136 foreigners in 2024, before the figure rose to 36,740 in 2025, an increase of 3,604 arrests.
A further 26,968 foreign nationals were arrested between January and September this year.
In a statement, Mohd Khalid said police would maintain firm and continuous enforcement against criminal activities, regardless of whether the perpetrators were Malaysian citizens or foreigners.
He stressed that everyone was subject to the same laws and that nationality, identity or social status would not exempt anyone from legal action.
“The police have always upheld the principle of equality before the law. Everyone, regardless of identity, status or nationality, must abide by the laws of our country.
“No illegal acts will be tolerated, and the police will take strict enforcement action in accordance with existing legal provisions,” he said.
Mohd Khalid also urged the public to remain strategic partners of the police by promptly reporting information relating to criminal activities to the authorities.
He said public cooperation and vigilance were essential in helping police prevent crime, safeguard public security and maintain social order. - November 14, 2026
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