By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Jan 11: A police team from the Kuching District Police Headquarters (IPD Kuching) has successfully dismantled an online gambling (calling centre) operation syndicate operating from a residence on Jalan Kepayang.
The raid, carried out by the Criminal Investigation Division, resulted in the arrest of 41 individuals and the seizure of various equipment used for the illegal activities.
Kuching District Police chief ACP Mohd Farhan Lee Abdullah stated that one local man and 40 foreign nationals, aged between 18 and 31 years old, were apprehended during the operation.
“The police confiscated 19 desktop computers, 17 laptops, and 28 mobile phones of various brands believed to have been used in the operation.
“The investigation is being conducted under Section 4(1)(g) of the Common Gaming Houses Act 1953, which imposes penalties of fines ranging from RM5,000 to RM50,000 and imprisonment of up to three years. Each seized gambling machine also carries an additional fine under this section,” he explained in a statement today.
In addition to the gaming charges, all 40 foreign detainees are being investigated under Section 6(1)(C) of the Immigration Act 1959/63 for not possessing valid travel documents.
“A three-day remand has been obtained for the local man until Jan 13, 2025, while the foreign nationals are remanded for 14 days, up to January 22, 2025,” Mohd Farhan added.
He emphasised the police’s commitment to conducting ongoing enforcement to eradicate such illegal activities.
Mohd Farhan encouraged anyone with information on similar activities to come forward, noting that public cooperation is crucial in ensuring the success of their efforts against illegal gambling activities.
Those with information can contact the Kuching Control Centre at 082-244444 or reach out to ASP Christ Olsen Ramlee at 013-8607572. — DayakDaily
