KUALA LUMPUR: Bukit Aman is prepared to seek assistance from international law enforcement agencies to track down illegal gambling activities linked to this year’s FIFA World Cup, says Tan Sri Mohd Khalid Ismail.
The Inspector-General of Police said that although current monitoring efforts are focused on syndicates operating within the country, the police are ready to expand cooperation with foreign enforcement counterparts, including Aseanapol and Interpol.
He said one of the main challenges faced by authorities is the evolving modus operandi of gambling syndicates, which increasingly rely on technology, including online applications, digital platforms and smart devices, to conduct betting activities discreetly instead of operating from physical premises.
“I have also directed the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) in every contingent to closely monitor the situation and take firm action to completely curb these cyber gambling activities,” he said while attending the 42nd Annual General Meeting of the Retired Senior Police Officers Association of Malaysia (Respa) yesterday, Bernama reported.
Previously, Bukit Aman CID director Comm Datuk M. Kumar said 58 individuals suspected of involvement in illegal betting activities had been arrested following an operation nationwide since June 11.
On another matter, the IGP said the police have opened a disciplinary investigation into one of its personnel who recently went viral over allegations of insulting locals while visiting China.
“I urge all parties to remain calm as we will conduct a thorough investigation. Apart from disciplinary aspects, appropriate action will also be taken if any breach of the law is established,” he said.
He reminded all police personnel to uphold proper conduct at all times, whether in Malaysia or abroad, as they remain subject to the force’s regulations even when not in uniform.
The controversy involving a social media influencer – who is also a member of the police – attracted widespread attention, including from foreign media, after she was alleged to have shouted inappropriate remarks in a public area in China.
