Malaysia arrests over 300 people suspected of involvement in illegal gambling activities

On August 30 and 31, the Federal Criminal Investigation Department (CID) together with state law enforcement agencies carried out a large-scale operation “Op Dadu Mega” aimed at combating illegal gambling businesses in Malaysia.

During the operation, 395 premises were inspected, 272 of which were involved in gambling activities: 245 were points of sale of illegal lottery tickets, 20 online gambling centers, 5 with unlicensed family entertainment establishments and 2 call centers, allegedly related to gambling.

286 men and 42 women were arrested, including operators, employees and players. All those arrested, including 70 foreign nationals, were taken to the district police station for further investigation under the Immigration Act 1959/63, the General Gambling Houses Act 1953 and other state laws and regulations in the entertainment sector.

The police warned that such raids would be carried out more frequently to prevent illegal gambling activities.