Since the beginning of 2019, police in Kuala Lumpur have identified more than 14,700 suspects, seized RM3.8 million in cash and confiscated 10,300-plus pieces of equipment in connection to 8,775 illegal gambling operations in the country.
According to the New Straits Times, Bukit Aman Criminal Investigations Department Director Datuk Huzir Mohamed said 92 operators were arrested between January and late June. Police also called out 160 gaming syndicates believed to be at work in Selangor, Kedah, Penang and Pahang.
“We found that the most sought after gambling activity is the public lottery with 120 syndicates operating this service,” Huzir said. “Besides this, we also identified 37 syndicates involved in online gambling.”
Huzir warned that owners and tenants of properties could face prosecution if they allow their premises to be used for gambling. He added that the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission has been asked to block 1,270 websites promoting gaming activities.
“Local authorities have been advised to revoke the licenses of business premises used by individuals selling lotteries without valid permits,” Huzir continued. “In this regard, the local authorities in Johor have been working closely with the police and revoked business licenses of five outlets in Johor Baru Selatan, two in Mersing and three in Kluang.”
