PUTRAJAYA, June 27 (Bernama) — Malaysian police have smashed a foreign militant network with the arrest of 36 Bangladeshi nationals suspected of direct involvement in a radical movement based on extremist beliefs and violent ideology.
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said the arrests were made in a three-phase security operation in Selangor and Johor, which began on April 24.
In a statement today, he said five of the suspects were found to be involved under Chapter VIA of the Penal Code and have been charged in the Shah Alam and Johor Bahru Sessions Courts.
Another 15 individuals have been issued deportation orders, while 16 others are still under investigation for their suspected involvement in the militant group.
“Intelligence and coordinated action by the Special Branch revealed that this group imported extremist ideology based on Islamic State (IS) teachings into the country,” he said.
Saifuddin Nasution added that the group had also established recruitment cells within their own community to indoctrinate radical beliefs, raise funds for terrorist activities, and work to overthrow the legitimate government in their home country.
“I want to stress that Malaysia will not be a refuge, much less a staging ground for any foreign extremist elements.
“This operation proves that the MADANI Government is very serious and will not tolerate any element that poses a threat to national security,” he said.
He added that the success also demonstrated the efficiency and professionalism of the country’s security forces, especially the police, in safeguarding national sovereignty, harmony and public order.
Saifuddin Nasution also reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to strengthening intelligence capabilities, intensifying enforcement, and working with both domestic and international security agencies to ensure that Malaysia remains peaceful, stable and free from terrorist threats.
“Any attempt to use Malaysia as a militant operations base or a transit point for extremist movements will be met with firm, swift and effective action,” he added.
— BERNAMA