KOTA BARU: Syndicates smuggling undocumented migrants into Malaysia are also believed to be exploiting the same maritime routes to transport drugs, contraband and other prohibited goods.
Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) deputy director-general (Operations) Maritime Vice-Admiral Mohd Zawawi Abdullah said investigations into several recent cases had revealed an emerging trend of migrant smuggling through the country's waters, including along the Kelantan coast.
"The maritime routes used to smuggle migrants could also be exploited to transport drugs, contraband and other prohibited items, with investigations indicating that such activities could take place alongside migrant smuggling operations.
