KUALA LUMPUR: Eighty-five individuals were detained following large-scale raids on illegal gambling call centres nationwide.
Bukit Aman Criminal Investigation Department (CID) director Comm Datuk M. Kumar said the four-day operation, codenamed Ops Dadu Mega, was conducted by the department's anti-vice, gambling and secret societies division (D7) from Dec 20 to Dec 23.
“A total of 21 premises were inspected nationwide, with 20 found to be operating as call centres for online gambling activities.
“One additional premise was found to be involved in a non-existent investment scam targeting local victims,” he said in a statement on Wednesday (Dec 24).
Comm Kumar said 62 men and 23 women were detained during the operation.
"They were working as operators and customer service personnel for the syndicates.
"Of the total, 47 were Malaysians while 38 were foreigners," he added.
Various items, including computers, tablets, mobile phones and other electronic equipment, were seized during the raids.
"All suspects have been taken to the respective district police headquarters for documentation and further investigation
"The operation focused on dismantling illegal online gambling activities run through call centres that managed and promoted gambling websites targeting both local and foreign customers, including those from the Philippines, China and Australia," he added.
Investigations are being conducted under several laws, including Sections 4B(a), 4(1)(c) and 4(1)(g) of the Common Gaming Houses Act 1953, Section 420 of the Penal Code for cheating, as well as Sections 6(1)(c) and 15(1)(c) of the Immigration Act 1959/63, he said.
Meanwhile, Comm Kumar said 117 premises used as online gambling call centres were raided between Jan 1 and Dec 23.
"We detained 713 individuals linked to such activities.
“We will continue to intensify enforcement operations to curb illegal gambling activities nationwide,” the statement said, urging the public to come forward with information to assist authorities.
