Malaysian police take down illegal gambling ring, arrest 147

• Several raids in Malaysia resulted in the arrest of 147 people suspected of participating in an illegal gambling syndicate
• Suspects promoted online gambling and provided land-based slot machines and parts
• A majority of the suspected culprits are already facing gambling-related and conspiracy charges

More than 100 people were arrested in Malaysia over their alleged involvement in a large-scale illegal gambling syndicate.

The illicit gambling ring engaged in online gambling, as well as the distribution of slot machines and spare parts and resulted in raids.

The public is encouraged to avoid online gambling

On Sunday, the local media outlet, Bernama, released a report confirming details regarding the simultaneous seven raids that have taken place in Subang Jaya and Damansara.

While the police operation itself took place earlier this month, this is the first time information about the arrests has been released publicly.

According to Datuk M. Kumar, the director of the Bukit Aman Criminal Investigation Department (CID), a total of 147 individuals, between the ages of 20 and 50, were detained over their alleged involvement in unlawful activities.

The operation was conducted by the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) and resulted in the seizure of equipment and charges against the suspects.

Kumar said about the latest operation against illegal gambling: "PDRM treats this issue seriously and is committed to upholding the law, especially in combating and curbing the spread of online gambling activities."

Moreover, the CID director said: "PDRM also advises the public against engaging in online gambling, which has many negative impacts on society, particularly moral degradation, psychological harm, as well as social issues and urges the public to continue providing relevant information to the police."

133 suspects are facing gambling and conspiracy charges

In total, law enforcement seized 182 mobile phones, 139 laptops, 126 monitors and nine desktop computers.

Also found and seized were 28 electronic components, 84 access cards, five slot machines and other equipment and devices which were likely used by the illegal gambling syndicate.

Police did not confirm whether or not websites have so far been taken down and if the illegal online gambling ring targeted local residents or overseas customers.

According to law enforcement, the slot machines and the spare parts for them were distributed locally and overseas by the criminal syndicate.

Out of the total 147 detainees, 140 are Malaysian residents, while the remaining seven are foreigners, Kumar said.

Of the locals, 110 are men and 30 are women, while in the foreign nationals group, six are men and there is one woman.

Currently, 133 of the suspects are facing charges related to the promotion of gambling and criminal conspiracy.

On the other hand, the foreign nationals face charges for "violation of their passes or permits," as explained by CID's director.

Kumar also confirmed that the suspects may face further charges for violating the country's anti-money laundering and anti-terrorism financing laws.

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