KOTA KINABALU: A major swoop against illegal cockfighting rings and gambling activities across eight districts in Sabah saw 16 people arrested and seizures worth more than RM9.6mil.
The multi-agency integrated operations dubbed Ops Kandang Bersepadu led by the police General Operations Force (GOF) involved 14 simultaneous raids in Penampang, Tawau, Keningau, Semporna, Sandakan, Beluran, Lahad Datu and Kota Marudu from 8am to 6pm on Wednesday.
Sabah GOF Brigade Commander, Senior Asst Comm Datuk Nor Omar Sappi, said the integrated operation was carried out to combat cockfighting, illegal gambling, and other unlawful activities.
“As a result of the 14 raids, 16 men aged between 31 and 70 were arrested,” he said in a statement Friday (Aug 14).
He said the arrests involved 13 locals and three foreigners.
None of the suspects had any prior criminal records,” he said, adding that the total value of seizures including the prized roosters was estimated at RM9.602mil.
“The largest portion involved fighting cocks worth RM8.935mil, followed by various equipment worth RM650,470.
“We also seized a dead civet cat valued at RM4,000, porcupine quills worth RM11,540, and pangolin scales worth RM500,” SAC Nor Omar added.
He said the offences were being investigated under Section 15(1) of the Sabah Animals Enactment 2015, Section 21(1)(i) of the Animal Welfare Enactment 2015, and Section 41(1) of the Wildlife Conservation Act 1997.
Local authorities were also taking action under local by-laws related to licensing of premises for trade and businesses offences,” he said
SAC Nor Omar said 128 officers and personnel took part, including 86 from the Sabah PGA Brigade.
The operation also involved four officers from the Health Ministry, 22 from the Veterinary Services Department, 14 from local authorities and two from the Sabah Wildlife Department.
He said all arrests and seizures have been handed over to the relevant agencies for further investigation and action.
He said police were constantly conducting intelligence operations and working with related agencies to eradicate cockfighting, illegal gambling, and other unlawful activities.
“The public with information on any criminal or illegal activity is urged to report it to the police,” he added.
