Police arrest 331 people in nationwide crackdown on illegal World Cup betting

POLICE have arrested 331 individuals and uncovered more than RM2.62 million in illegal betting activity during a nationwide enforcement operation aimed at dismantling unlicensed sports betting and online gambling syndicates exploiting the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2026.

Bukit Aman Criminal Investigation Department director Datuk M. Kumar said Op Soga XI, which began on June 11 and will continue until July 19, is focused on curbing illegal sports betting and online gambling activities expected to surge during the global football tournament.

He said police conducted 293 raids across the country, resulting in the arrest of 331 suspects comprising 312 men and 19 women believed to be involved in illegal betting operations.

“Of the total arrested, 234 are Malaysian citizens while the remaining 97 are foreign nationals.

“During the operation, police also seized RM145,005.09 in cash and uncovered betting transactions valued at RM2,625,529.46,” he said in a statement on Monday.

Investigators also identified 185 online platforms, including websites, applications, social media accounts and other digital services, being used to facilitate football betting and promote illegal gambling activities.

M. Kumar said police are working with the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) to block the websites and remove online content linked to the illegal operations.

All suspects have been taken to the respective district police headquarters for documentation and further investigation under the Betting Act 1953 and the Immigration Act 1959/63, depending on the offences committed.

He added that investigations are also being conducted under the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act 2001 (AMLA).

M. Kumar said the Royal Malaysia Police would continue intensifying nationwide enforcement operations and strengthen strategic cooperation with relevant agencies to dismantle illegal gambling syndicates.

He also urged members of the public to provide information to the authorities to assist efforts in combating illegal betting networks, which are increasingly using digital platforms to expand their operations. - June 29, 2026