Saifuddin Nasution confirms former deputy minister is being investigated for alleged human trafficking in Myanmar

KUALA NERUS, Sept 1 — Police have launched an investigation into allegations that a former deputy minister is involved in a human trafficking ring operating in Myanmar.

However, Home Affairs Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail confirmed this by refusing to comment further on the matter to avoid speculation.

“The police have started an investigation and I have every confidence that they will handle the matter professionally.

“However, I can share insights from the recent ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Transnational Crime in Laos, where it was noted that human trafficking is increasing in all participating countries,” he said.

He told reporters after handing over identity documents under the Menyemai Kasih Rakyat (MEKAR) programme at the Pulau Redang community centre today.

According to Saifuddin Nasution, almost all ASEAN countries have passed laws to combat human trafficking, including Malaysia’s Anti-Trafficking in Persons and Anti-Smuggling of Migrants (ATIPSOM) Act of 2007.

“The police will intensify efforts to prevent public involvement in such activities. If involvement is confirmed, investigations will be conducted in accordance with the law,” he added.

Earlier, it was reported that Malaysia’s International Humanitarian Organisation (MHO) had on Wednesday submitted a report to the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC), seeking an investigation into a politician and her husband who allegedly have links to a human trafficking syndicate in Myanmar. — Bernama