This news article exposes the sophisticated methods used by smugglers to transport illegal firearms across the Thai-Malaysian border. Despite stringent security measures, smugglers utilize various techniques, including concealing firearms within legitimate cargo shipments and exploiting vulnerabilities in border inspections. The article highlights the importance of international collaboration, advanced technology, and continuous enhancement of border security measures to effectively combat this persistent threat.
Crates filled with goods passing through Thai-Malaysian border checkpoints often appear innocuous. However, beneath the piles, smugglers may conceal contraband, drugs, and dangerous items such as firearms to evade the scrutiny of border guards. Mohamad Anil, a retired senior police officer and former director of public services of the Asean Chiefs of National Police secretariat, highlighted this common tactic employed by smugglers.
Despite stringent security measures, the sheer volume of goods crossing borders daily can lead to subtle signs of concealment being overlooked during inspections. Anil explained that firearms are frequently found in drug shipments, as criminal syndicates understand the severe consequences associated with both illicit activities. He emphasized that firearms can be smuggled wholly or in parts, as they are easily assembled and disassembled. To avoid detection, they are often transported in small numbers alongside legal items. Anil stressed the importance of strong international collaborations with enforcement agencies for effective control of trafficking. He believes that intelligence sharing, not only with local but also foreign counterparts, is crucial for seamless and successful enforcement efforts. This collaborative approach has proven effective in curbing transborder trafficking. While sophisticated security measures are in place, firearms occasionally slip past, particularly through clandestine routes. Anil commended the establishment of the Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency, which commenced operations last year, expecting it to further strengthen border security. Ragu, a reformed underworld member and self-employed individual, shared insights into the world of smuggling. He revealed that some individuals specialize in transporting a wide range of goods across borders for lucrative profits. These smugglers often reside near the borders, possessing intimate knowledge of the terrain.Ragu described a tactic used by local smugglers to introduce small firearms: taking a bus trip to Thailand for a few days. Upon their return, they would conceal a handgun, usually wrapped in newspaper and plastic, in a dustbin attached to the bus seat. To make the bin appear unappealing, they would spit out fruit or other food into it. During random checks on the bus, authorities would typically bypass the bin unless they had prior intelligence. Upon reaching their destination, the smuggler would retrieve the entire garbage bag and leave the bus with the concealed firearm.However, Ragu acknowledged that hiding firearms within regular and legal cargo transported by lorries is a more prevalent method. Assoc Prof Datuk P Sundramoorthy, a criminologist at Universiti Sains Malaysia, emphasized the challenges posed by Malaysia's extensive and porous borders, particularly along its sea and land frontiers, in combating the smuggling of illegal firearms. The high volume of people and goods crossing these borders further complicates inspections, creating opportunities for smugglers to exploit vulnerabilities.Sundramoorthy acknowledged the government's efforts to implement various security intelligence measures and technological solutions to address these challenges. He highlighted the Customs Department's utilization of scanning equipment to detect prohibited items, including firearms, without disrupting legitimate trade. Despite these initiatives, firearms smuggling persists, underscoring the need for continuous enhancement of border security measures through the adoption of advanced technologies to effectively counter this threat
FIREARMS SMUGGLING BORDER CONTROL THAILAND MALAYSIA INTELLIGENCE SHARING TECHNOLOGY SECURITY MEASURES
Malaysia Latest News, Malaysia Headlines
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