The Jakarta Post, August 26, 2006
Eight foreigners arrested in Tual
AMBON, Maluku: Six Thais and two Myanmarese have been detained for illegally
overstaying in the country during an operation by the immigration office in Tual,
Southeast Maluku.
Immigration office head Johanis Saija said the non-nationals were former fishing boat
crew members who were no longer employed.
"They have been staying in Tual for more than a year. Some of them have even
married locals," Johanis told The Jakarta Post by phone Friday.
Based on data collected by the office, 209 foreigners were arrested for overstaying
offenses in 2005 and 158 were caught as of August this year.
Johanis said the operation, which began on Aug. 22, was commenced in cooperation
with fishing companies in Tual because most foreigners entering the city worked in
fishing crews.
"We will deport the Thais to their country, while detaining the Myanmarese until a
vessel destined for Myanmar arrives," Johanis said. -- JP
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