Malaysian police carried out a two-day nationwide operation, Ops Dadu Khas, from October 31 to November 1, covering Sabah and Sarawak as well. In total, 201 premises were searched and 282 people were arrested. Bukit Aman Criminal Investigation Department (CID) director Datuk M. Kumar announced the results at a press conference on November 2.
Of the 201 addresses, 108 were linked to online gambling and 93 to unlicensed public lotteries. The syndicates operated behind cafes, grocery stores and telecommunications shops to avoid attention from authorities.
Among those detained were 229 men and 53 women aged 20 to 65. 223 were Malaysian citizens and 59 were foreigners. According to Kumar, foreigners from Indonesia, Myanmar, Nepal and Bangladesh were hired by local syndicates as premises minders. All 282 people are being held for one to four days to assist the investigation.
Police seized tablets, phones and portable printers. Cash seized totalled 32,149 ringgit (about $7,900), or roughly $40 per address. Several syndicates were identified, including Winbox and Alibaba. According to Kumar, their members can relocate easily: they only need internet and Wi-Fi.
The cases are being investigated under the Common Gaming Houses Act 1953, in particular sections 4A(a), 4B(a) and 4(1)(c). Foreigners are also being checked under the Immigration Act 1959/63. Further investigations may proceed under the Anti-Money Laundering Act (AMLA).
Police recommend cutting the electricity supply to all 201 addresses under section 21A of the Common Gaming Houses Act after investigations are complete and sufficient evidence is available. Local authorities will make the decision, and police will send them the recommendation.
What matters for the market is the scheme itself: the outlets pose as ordinary businesses and relocate, so closing addresses does not break the syndicates. The next step is to identify the syndicate leaders within the period the detained suspects are held in custody.
