Aidiladha weekend sees uptick in illegal crossings at Sungai Golok

New Straits Times

4 hours ago

RANTAU PANJANG: Droves of Malaysians, especially from Kelantan, have illegally crossed into Thailand via Sungai Golok, during the long Hari Raya Aidiladha weekend.
It is understood that a large number of people — many of them young adults — would use the illegal jetties nestled between riverside houses along Sungai Golok, which runs along the border between here in Kelantan and the southern Thai town that bears the river's name.
"It cannot be denied that a majority of Malaysians go to Sungai Golok to visit relatives, but some might take the opportunity to go there for entertainment," said the sources.
A local parking attendant, identified only as Pak Lah, sadi the festive period saw a surge of people illegally crossing into Thailand.
"They usually come in groups and will cross late at night or before sunrise.
"Some return before dawn, while others stay until the next day," he said, adding that many are drawn by the nightlife and entertainment in Sungai Golok.
Pak Lah said the risk of arrest or being fined did not deter them.
"These people know the risks, but they are still willing to take the chance.
"They believe if they go at the right time, they can avoid the authorities," he said.
Checks at several illegal jetties here today found many groups crossing at night or in the early morning to avoid detection by the authorities.
Many cars could be seen parked near jetties, where boats were moored waiting for customers.
Authorities had warned that illegal crossings not only had legal consequences but also posed safety risks.