KUALA LUMPUR – The National Task Force (NTF) will continue with its duties even after the Covid-19 pandemic ends, says Chief of the Defence Forces Gen Tan Sri Affendi Buang.
“The NTF has been successful in ensuring the security of our borders during this period, and can be used to counter various threats in the future.
“In addition, the NTF has various operation modules that have been effective in controlling the entry of migrants, smuggling and enforcement at our country’s borders,” he said in a media conference after the signing of permanent procedures for Ops Benteng operations at Wisma Perwira ATM here today.
The permanent procedures for Ops Benteng are the standard for the inter-agency collaboration employed in the operation. It was signed by the 19 enforcement and national security agencies involved in Ops Benteng.
IGP Tan Sri Abdul Hamid Bador and Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency director-general Datuk Mohd Zubil Mat Som were also present at the signing ceremony.
Commenting on the integrated patrols at the country’s borders, Affendi said that the armed forces, together with other enforcement agencies including the police, were stationed at the borders according to pre-determined sectors.
“On the field, we utilise and coordinate existing teams by optimising assets and the number of armed forces personnel to be placed on duty with other agencies,” he said.
Regarding cross-border crime, Affendi voiced his disappointment as the majority of such crimes were committed by locals who were taking advantage of the current situation during the Covid-19 pandemic.
“We cannot just let this carry on because if left unaddressed, it will result in losses especially in the aspects of economic stability and the well-being of the country’s citizens,” he said.
According to Affendi, in the seven months Ops Benteng has been carried out, 9,677 migrants, 831 human traffickers and 374 smugglers have been successfully detained.
“The total value of items seized and confiscated (throughout the operation) stands at RM199 million,” he added. – Bernama, December 14, 2020
