Migrant smugglers turn to drones, social media to evade detection, says GOF

KOTA BARU: Syndicates smuggling undocumented migrants are now deploying drones to monitor security forces' movements, said the General Operations Force (GOF).

GOF Southeast Brigade commander Datuk Ahmad Radzi Hussain said syndicates were also using social media platforms to communicate and avoid detection.

"The modus operandi of these syndicates changes depending on the situation and the level of border control. Apart from Sungai Golok and illegal bases, we have detected movements shifting to sea routes, smaller rivers, and Sungai Kelantan to avoid detection.

"Once inside Malaysia, the undocumented migrants are taken to transit points before being sent to their respective destinations using private vehicles, e-hailing services, or public transport.

"We have also detected the involvement of local agents, boat captains, and runners handling their movements. Syndicates are also using social media communications and technologies such as drones to monitor security forces.

"The syndicates are constantly changing routes, timing, and methods. That is why PGA enforcement strategies must also constantly adapt," he said when contacted.

Asked about the challenges faced by the GOF in tackling migrant smuggling, Radzi said the main obstacles included the vast and complex terrain, along with the length of Sungai Golok.

He said smaller rivers, jungles, plantations, rat lanes, and numerous illegal routes also made it difficult to track the movements of smugglers and migrants.

"Another challenge is the syndicates' constantly shifting modus operandi. When one route is tightened, they find new ones, including sea passages and small rivers.

"The safety of personnel must also be prioritised given the possibility that they may be armed.

"However, this does not deter the GOF Southeast Brigade from carrying out its duties. Instead, we must continuously adapt our strategies, strengthen intelligence, and step up inter-agency cooperation," he said.