POLICE have arrested a group of 171 Bangladeshi men who were walking in a large group, raising concerns among local residents.

Kota Tinggi police chief Hussin Zamora said the December 20 incident prompted the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) to file a report the same day.

He said the Bangladeshis were arrested by MAF personnel and initial investigations revealed they were heading towards the Bayu Damai police station, located about 10km from their hostel.

The foreign workers wanted to press charges against their agents as they had yet to be employed after three to six months.

“All of them were arrested as they were spotted walking in front of Teluk Ramunia Bayu Damai intersection seemingly aimlessly, but it is believed they were going to the police station.

“However, all of them had valid documents and it is understood the agents have yet to find them suitable employment,” he said in a statement today.

Hussin said the Bangladeshis, aged between 19 and 43, were handed over to the Immigration Department for overstaying, under section 15(1)(c) of the Immigration Act 1959/63.

“All were sent to the Setia Tropika Immigration Department in Johor Baru for further investigation,” he said.

Earlier, a one-minute, 33-second video that went viral showed the men walking in a group and sparking unease among residents. – Bernama, December 25, 2023.