Kota Bharu, Malaysia – The Malaysian authorities have announced an intensified crackdown on cross-border crime by targeting 212 illegal river jetties along the Kolok River, which forms part of the border between Malaysia and Thailand. The initiative, nearly doubling the initial target of 128 jetties, underscores the growing concerns over smuggling and trafficking in the region.
The decision was finalized during a meeting between security and state officials, according to Nik Ros Azhan Nia Ab Hamid, the chief of the regional Malaysian police force. The authorities identified the structures, located in Kelantan state, as critical points of illegal activity linking Sungai Kolok and Tak Bai districts across the border in Narathiwat province, Thailand.
The demolition process will prioritize floating jetties constructed illegally on government land. Officials stressed that the move would be carried out in accordance with legal protocols, beginning with land status verification. Notices will be issued by the relevant district land offices before any demolition takes place.
Local authorities have long regarded these unauthorized jetties as channels for human trafficking, narcotics trade, and contraband smuggling. Security agencies also noted significant movement of goods from Malaysia into Thailand, facilitated by these makeshift access points.
“The presence of these jetties has enabled criminal groups to exploit the river as a convenient entry and exit point,” Nik Ros Azhan was quoted by Bernama, Malaysia’s national news agency. He emphasized that dismantling the infrastructure would significantly reduce avenues for illicit cross-border movements.
The Kolok River, which naturally delineates the boundary between Malaysia’s Kelantan state and Thailand’s Narathiwat province, has historically been a hotspot for informal cross-border exchanges. However, authorities say that the line between legitimate trade and organized crime has blurred over time, requiring decisive action.
This latest effort aligns with broader regional initiatives to strengthen border security across ASEAN member states. By targeting critical nodes of illegal transit, Malaysia hopes to deter syndicates that thrive on porous borders and reinforce bilateral cooperation with Thailand in maintaining security and lawful commerce.
If successful, the demolition program could serve as a model for other ASEAN countries facing similar challenges at their shared frontiers.
