{
  "id": 18269352,
  "title": "Migrant smuggling routes also used to move drugs, contraband, says MMEA",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/05/migrant-smuggling-routes-also-used-to-move-drugs-contraband-says-mmea",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-11-05T07:18:56.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "New Straits Times",
    "slug": "new-straits-times",
    "url": "https://www.nst.com.my/news/regional/2026/11/1571424/migrant-smuggling-routes-also-used-move-drugs-contraband-says-mmea"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "KOTA BARU: Investigations by the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) have revealed that migrant smuggling routes are being co-opted by syndicates to transport drugs, contraband and other prohibited goods. Deputy Director-General (Operations) Maritime Vice-Admiral Mohd Zawawi Abdullah stated that the MMEA had observed an emerging trend of smugglers exploiting maritime routes, including those along the Kelantan coast, for transporting illicit items. The agency's recent investigations suggested that such activities occur concurrently with migrant smuggling operations. One method involves migrants traveling overland from Thailand before boarding boats to enter Malaysia via its east coast waters. Another involves undocumented migrants flying into Phuket, Thailand, and then traveling overland to areas where they are transported by sea into Malaysia. While the number of cases and migrants detected remains relatively low, Abdullah noted an uptick in these activities. He emphasized that Kelantan's waters remain a vulnerable entry point for undocumented migrants, particularly around Tumpat and Kota Baru. Abdullah warned that the MMEA would intensify enforcement efforts through special operations, ongoing patrols, and the strengthening of assets and manpower to combat the threat. He added that migrant smuggling and other maritime crimes extend beyond Kelantan, posing challenges in other regions such as Kedah, Perlis, Sabah, and the Straits of Malacca. According to ABF Maritime Border Command commander Rear Admiral Brett Sonter, Australia and Malaysia maintain a robust partnership in safeguarding their maritime borders through intelligence-sharing, enforcement, and regional collaboration. Sonter highlighted that Op Redback, a joint operation between the MMEA and the ABF, marks its 13th year and 23rd iteration, underscoring the commitment of both nations to combating people smuggling and maritime crime. He stressed that Australia's approach encompasses more than enforcement, relying on strong regional partnerships and sustained engagement to ensure prospective migrants comprehend the risks associated with irregular migration. Sonter emphasized that people smuggling is a heinous crime, exploiting vulnerable individuals, disseminating misinformation, and placing lives at risk for financial gain. The operation facilitated opportunities to enhance cooperation with Malaysian and Thai counterparts, as well as local community members who contribute valuable insights and observations to maritime security.",
  "summary": "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.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "Malay Mail",
        "title": "Two Thai nationals face death penalty for allegedly killing MMEA officer in Sungai Padang",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/05/two-thai-nationals-face-death-penalty-for-allegedly-killing-mmea",
        "published": "2026-11-05T07:10:17.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}