Penang Condo Raids: 3 Indonesians Rescued After Alleged Year-Long Captivity, 4 Arrested
GEORGE TOWN, June 11 — In a shocking discovery, Penang police have rescued three Indonesian men who are believed to have been held captive within a condominium on Jalan Dr Wu Lien Teh for almost a year. The dramatic rescue unfolded yesterday, leading to the arrest of four suspects.
According to a report by Berita Harian, the men, whose ages range from 24 to 32, were found in a state of distress within the condominium unit. Police raided the property following a tip-off, and the rescued men are now receiving medical attention and counseling.
Penang Police Chief, Comm. Dato' Hamzah Ali, confirmed the arrests and stated that the rescued men were allegedly forced to work without proper compensation. The investigation is ongoing to determine the full extent of their ordeal and the motives behind their captivity.
“We received information about the situation and immediately dispatched a team to investigate. Upon arrival, we discovered the three Indonesian men and subsequently made the arrests,” Comm. Hamzah stated. “They were allegedly being exploited and forced to work under duress.”
Details on the Alleged Captivity:
- Duration: Approximately one year
- Location: Condominium unit on Jalan Dr Wu Lien Teh, George Town, Penang
- Victims: Three Indonesian men (ages 24-32)
- Suspects: Four individuals, currently in police custody
- Alleged Exploitation: Forced labor without proper compensation
The police are currently questioning the four suspects, who are believed to be locals. Authorities are also working to reunite the rescued men with their families in Indonesia. The case highlights the ongoing issue of human trafficking and exploitation in Malaysia, and underscores the importance of vigilance and reporting suspicious activity.
This incident has sparked concerns among Indonesian migrant worker groups, who have called for increased protection and support for vulnerable workers. They emphasize the need for stricter enforcement of labor laws and greater awareness among employers to prevent such situations from happening again.
The investigation is expected to continue in the coming days, with police seeking further evidence to build a strong case against the suspects. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available. The Penang state government has also pledged its support to the victims and the ongoing investigation.
This rescue serves as a stark reminder of the hidden struggles faced by many migrant workers in Malaysia, and the crucial role that law enforcement agencies play in protecting their rights and ensuring their safety.