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Bangladesh-Focused Extremist Cell Neutralized: Malaysian Police Arrest 36 Nationals in IS-Linked Plot Against Home Government– Malaysian authorities have dealt a significant blow to a foreign extremist network, announcing the successful dismantling of a militant group composed entirely of Bangladeshi nationals. Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail confirmed today that investigations by the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) Special Branch found no Malaysian citizens had been recruited into this dangerous cell.
The apprehended group, steeped in Islamic State (IS) ideology, had a clear and alarming objective: toppling the government in their country of origin, Bangladesh. "Their activities were focused on violent extremism with the objective of toppling the government in their country of origin (Bangladesh)," Minister Saifuddin Nasution stated, highlighting the transnational nature of this threat where foreign elements sought to use Malaysian soil for their subversive aims. This confirms concerns that groups like Jama'at Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB) and Neo-Jama'at Mujahideen Bangladesh (Neo-JMB), known for their IS or al-Qaeda affiliations and goals of establishing Islamic states through violence, continue to operate with external links.
The operation led to the arrest of 36 Bangladeshi nationals, suspected of direct involvement in the radical movement. These arrests were made across Selangor and Johor in a comprehensive three-phase security operation that began on April 24, 2025. These individuals were reportedly engaged in various illicit activities within their community, including establishing recruitment cells, fundraising for terror activities, orchestrating indoctrination, and other subversive acts. Notably, five of those arrested have been directly incriminated under Chapter VIA of Malaysia's Penal Code, which addresses terrorism-related offenses. This successful intervention underscores Malaysia's proactive approach to combating foreign-linked extremist threats.
Minister Saifuddin Nasution emphasized Malaysia's strong stance on national security. "It is important to inform the public that our security forces are on high alert. If such activities are not addressed firmly, they could pose a serious threat to national security," he stated, reiterating Malaysia's commitment to preventing its territory from becoming a base for foreign extremist plots.
National Scam Response Centre Undergoes Major Overhaul
In a separate development, Minister Saifuddin Nasution also announced a significant restructuring of the National Scam Response Centre (NSRC), aiming to drastically improve its effectiveness in combating cybercrime.
The Royal Malaysia Police will now lead the NSRC, supported by other key agencies. This new framework addresses previous "operational shortcomings" that arose from fragmented oversight among multiple bodies like Bank Negara and the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC).
The revamped NSRC will streamline the reporting process for victims: police will directly receive scam reports, record details, and immediately notify relevant banks to freeze accounts, expediting stolen fund recovery. To ensure continuous access and faster response times, the NSRC's crucial 997 hotline will operate 24 hours a day, and its staff numbers will be increased. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has approved these improvements, which are expected to be implemented soon. This includes the provision of a new headquarters by the MCMC and the addition of 139 permanent posts to strengthen the NSRC's capabilities.
This dual focus on countering foreign extremist threats and bolstering defenses against cybercrime demonstrates the Malaysian government's dedication to safeguarding its citizens and maintaining peace and stability.
Source: Bernama
