Malaysia detains 13 suspected ISIS militants

Malaysia has detained 13 suspected militants associated with the Islamic State (ISIS).

Malaysian police chief Khalid Abu Bakar tweeted the announcement Thursday afternoon.

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He said the suspects were arrested after the police special counter-terrorism forces conducted a major raid of terror cells linked to ISIS in the country.

In his tweet, he says ISIS-related documents were seized in the bust as well.

Shortly after Khalid's post, Home Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the police is monitoring two deviant Muslim religious groups in the country. Authorities suspect there are militant elements in their teachings, and the minister noted that they preach concepts such as crusading and martyrdom -- "deviant" concepts that pose security risks.

Malaysia has been on high alert since neighbouring Muslim nation Indonesia was attacked by ISIS-linked gunmen in January.

Earlier this year, foreign governments like Australia issued travel alerts to Malaysia's capital of Kuala Lumpur, citing possible terror attacks.

Malaysian police have arrested a reported 157 suspected militants since 2013, with the latest arrest conducted at the end of January when seven people were picked up.

UPDATE: March 24, 2016, 4:58 p.m. SGT  

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