GEORGE TOWN: Small-time bookies involved in FIFA World Cup betting activities have not gone unnoticed by police here, says Comm Datuk Dennis Lim Kwang Keng.
The Penang police chief said police intelligence network had led to the arrest of 18 alleged bookies following several recent raids.
“Our intelligence network and continuous surveillance identified 18 websites, mobile applications and social media channels used by the suspects for betting activities,” he said yesterday.
Besides the arrests, he added that RM8,935 in cash was also seized during the raids.
He said the Criminal Investigation Department’s D7 (Gambling, Vice and Secret Societies) Division was working with relevant agencies to block access to online gambling platforms, including cracking down on the use of mule accounts.
“We will intensify enforcement efforts to ensure that illegal gambling is comprehensively eradicated,” he added.
Comm Lim advised the public not to participate in illegal gambling, whether in person or online, as it could lead to severe socio-economic consequences.
“It often leads to other crimes such as fraud, money laundering and the exploitation of mule accounts,” he said.
“It can also lead to severe financial ruin, addiction and family breakdown.
Lim warned that anyone found organising, operating or participating in illegal gambling activities would face stern action.
He said the recent cases were being investigated under the Common Gaming Houses Act, the Betting Act and other relevant legislation.
He urged the public with information on illegal gambling activities to contact the police.
The FIFA World Cup 2026 started on June 11 with the final scheduled for July 19.
