Immigration officers net 20 Chinese nationals

PALEMBANG: Muara Enim Immigration officers in South Sumatra have arrested 20 Chinese nationals for immigration violations.

The immigration office head, M. Hayat Henri, said Monday the Chinese nationals were workers of PT Guohwa Energi Musi Makmur Indonesia, which was constructing a power plant in Gunung Raja village, Rambang Dangku district, Muara Enim regency.

"The workers have no working permits. They were arrested in a raid by the immigration office in cooperation with Muara Enim police," Henri said.

He said the workers could face a maximum punishment of five years in jail for violating the immigration law. "Or they could be deported. They are now being questioned."

He said if the workers are deported the cost for the deportation should be borne by the company. - JP