Royal Malaysia Police Uncover Scam Syndicate, Arrest 74 Foreigners

Kuala Lumpur:The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) dismantled a syndicate involved in online gambling and scam call center operations, resulting in the arrest of 74 foreigners during Ops Dadu Khas conducted in the capital.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the raids took place across eight residential premises with the cooperation of the Bukit Aman Criminal Investigation Department (CID) and the Commercial Crime Investigation Department (CCID). Datuk M. Kumar, the CID director, reported that the operation led to the arrest of 67 men and seven women, aged between 20 and 50. The detainees included 61 Chinese nationals, 12 Vietnamese, and one Taiwanese, as revealed by their identification documents.

The investigation uncovered that the premises were allegedly involved in promoting online gambling, 'love scams,' and non-existent investment scams. These locations also served as accommodation for call center operators. The police seized various electronic devices such as computers, laptops, modems, and mobile phones, which were purportedly used in the illegal activities.

In addition to the electronic equipment, the police confiscated a plastic packet containing five pills suspected to be Yaba and 5.72 grammes of powder and crystal fragments believed to be methamphetamine. Consequently, eight investigation papers have been opened under multiple legal provisions, including Section 4(1)(g) of the Common Gaming Houses Act 1953, Section 420 and Section 120B of the Penal Code, and Section 39A(1) of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952. Immigration violations under Sections 6(1)(c) and 15(1)(c) of the Immigration Act 1959/63 are also being investigated.

PDRM emphasized its commitment to eradicating gambling activities, citing their detrimental impact on the nation's economic stability and social fabric. The police assured that enforcement efforts against unlicensed gambling would be intensified through collaboration with various agencies, including local authorities. The public is encouraged to continue providing information to aid in these efforts.