Kuala Lumpur– Malaysian authorities have arrested 36 Bangladeshi nationals accused of promoting extremist beliefs linked to the Islamic State (IS) ideology, the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) announced on Friday.
The arrests were the result of a coordinated security operation launched on April 24 across the states of Selangor and Johor. According to Malaysia’s Ministry of Home Affairs, the operation was carried out in three phases and targeted a network suspected of attempting to spread radical ideologies within the country.
Of the 36 individuals apprehended, five have been charged under Chapter VIA of the Penal Code related to terrorism and are currently facing trial in the Shah Alam and Johor Bahru Sessions Courts. Fifteen others have received deportation orders, while the remaining sixteen are still under investigation.
The Home Ministry stated that intelligence gathered by the Special Branch revealed the group had created recruitment cells within their communities to promote radical beliefs, raise funds for terrorist activities, and attempt to overthrow the legitimate government in their home country.
“These individuals were importing extremist ideology based on Islamic State principles into Malaysia and posed a direct threat to national security,” the Ministry noted in a statement.
Malaysia’s Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail emphasized that the country will not serve as a safe haven or staging ground for foreign militant groups.
“This operation demonstrates the Madani Government’s zero-tolerance policy toward any elements that threaten national security,” he said. “It also showcases the professionalism and effectiveness of our security forces, particularly the Royal Malaysian Police.”
Minister Saifuddin reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening intelligence operations, increasing enforcement, and working closely with both domestic and international security agencies to ensure Malaysia remains safe, stable, and free from terrorism.
“Any effort to turn Malaysia into a hub or transit point for militant operations will be met with swift, firm, and decisive action,” he added. (Source: IANS)
