24 Chinese Nationals Deported After Immigration Crackdown in Sabah’s Semporna

KUALA LUMPUR, May, 2026 — Malaysian immigration authorities have deported 24 Chinese nationals after they were detained during a series of immigration enforcement operations conducted in Semporna, Sabah, in late April. The deportation reflects Sabah’s continued crackdown on immigration-related offences and undocumented foreign presence in the state.

According to the Sabah Immigration Department, the group consisted of 23 men and one woman who were arrested during coordinated enforcement raids known as Ops Kutip, Ops Mahir, and Ops Sapu, carried out in Semporna on April 21, 2026. Authorities said the individuals were found to have violated Malaysian immigration regulations.

Deported via Tawau After Immigration Violations

The deportation exercise was reportedly carried out on May 7, with the Chinese nationals being sent back to their country of origin through a direct international flight from Tawau Airport. Sabah immigration officials stated that the process was conducted in accordance with Malaysian immigration procedures following detention and legal review.

Officials said the detainees were investigated under Regulation 39(b) of the Immigration Regulations 1963 as well as Section 15(1)(c) of the Immigration Act 1959/63, provisions commonly used in cases involving immigration violations such as overstaying, misuse of travel documents, or non-compliance with entry conditions.

Sabah Intensifies Immigration Enforcement

The Sabah Immigration Department stressed that enforcement operations will continue across the state to address illegal immigration and ensure compliance with national laws. Authorities warned foreign nationals entering Malaysia, particularly Sabah, to ensure they possess valid documentation and follow immigration requirements to avoid legal action or deportation.

Semporna, a district known internationally for its tourism industry and proximity to maritime borders, has frequently been the focus of immigration monitoring efforts due to concerns over undocumented migration and border control challenges. Sabah authorities have consistently increased enforcement through targeted operations to strengthen state security and immigration compliance.

Growing Focus on Border Security in Sabah

The latest deportation comes amid broader efforts by Malaysian authorities to strengthen border management and tighten immigration enforcement, especially in eastern Sabah. Immigration officials reiterated that employers and individuals found violating immigration regulations may face legal consequences under Malaysian law.

Observers say the operation underscores Malaysia’s firm stance on immigration compliance while balancing security concerns and legal enforcement in strategically sensitive areas such as Sabah’s east coast. As authorities continue surveillance and raids, more operations are expected in the coming months targeting undocumented foreign nationals and immigration-related offences.