Online gambling syndicates are increasingly disguising their operations as ordinary businesses, including cafes, beverage shops and grocery stores, in an attempt to evade enforcement authorities.
The modus operandi was uncovered during Op Dadu Khas, which saw police raid 201 premises nationwide on October 30 and November 1.
Bukit Aman Criminal Investigation Department director Datuk M. Kumar said 282 people were arrested during the operation as part of efforts to crack down on illegal online gambling and unlicensed number forecast betting activities.
Of those detained, 229 were men and 53 were women, aged between 20 and 65.
“Fifty-nine of them were foreigners from Indonesia, Myanmar, Nepal and Bangladesh who had been employed by local syndicates.
“Those arrested also included individuals found possessing online gambling applications, as well as people gambling in public areas,” he said during a press conference at Bukit Aman today.
Preliminary investigations have identified several syndicates believed to be involved, including Winbox and Alibaba.
The cases are being investigated under Sections 4A(a), 4B(a) and 4(1)(c) of the Common Gaming Houses Act 1953, as well as Sections 6(1)(c) and 15(1)(c) of the Immigration Act 1959/63.
Kumar said police were working to identify the syndicate leaders for further action, including possible investigations under the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act 2001 (AMLA).
Addressing the resurgence of online gambling operations, he said syndicates frequently moved from one location to another because their activities required only basic facilities such as internet connectivity, Wi-Fi and streaming services.
“They can operate anywhere. That is why police have conducted intelligence operations and identified the premises involved,” he said.
All 201 premises raided will be recommended for electricity supply disconnection once investigations are completed, in accordance with provisions under the Common Gaming Houses Act 1953.
Police will also work with the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) to remove online gambling advertisements circulated through social media platforms.
Kumar said enforcement operations against illegal gambling would continue from time to time, urging the public to provide information to the police to help combat the activities.
