THE police have foiled two major criminal operations in Johor, targeting a syndicate involved in sexual extortion and human trafficking, as well as a separate gang specialising in burglaries of shuttered properties.
The twin operations, known as ‘Op Bugil’ and ‘Op Shutter’, have led to multiple arrests and a crackdown on organised crime networks that have operated for several years.
The first syndicate, led by a 23-year-old local man and comprising 11 members aged between 18 and 37, has been active since 2024, according to the Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Mohd Khalid Ismail.
Police investigations reveal that victims across Malaysia suffered losses exceeding RM3 million.
“Modus operandi of this syndicate involved creating fake social media accounts and impersonating attractive women to lure victims into performing explicit video calls,” Mohd Khalid explained at a press conference at Bukit Aman today.
“Victims were also sent phishing links designed to hack their mobile devices, after which the recordings were used to extort money in stages. Victims, fearful and distressed, then transferred funds to the syndicate’s accounts as instructed.”
Mohd Khalid further revealed that the syndicate engaged in human exploitation, recruiting local workers—including minors—with promises of monthly salaries ranging from RM2,200 to RM4,000.
“Once trained, these individuals were offered overseas employment with salaries of up to USD2,500 (RM9,820), but were forced to work up to 12 hours a day under strict supervision.
“Identification documents were confiscated, and victims faced physical and sexual abuse if they refused to comply. They were also threatened with RM30,000 fines for quitting, deterring them from reporting to authorities,” he said.
During the January 15 operation, six suspects aged between 18 and 33 were detained under the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act 2012 (SOSMA).
Police are still pursuing five others, including the syndicate leader, some believed to be overseas. All suspects have previous criminal records including human trafficking, child pornography, armed robbery, vandalism, theft, rioting, and drug distribution.
Court proceedings are scheduled for February 12 at Johor Bahru Sessions Court, with potential sentences ranging from five to 20 years.
Separately, Op Shutter targeted a gang, known as Geng Richi, responsible for burglarising unoccupied terrace homes and commercial premises with shuttered doors. Active since 2022, the gang’s activities have caused losses exceeding RM1 million.
“This group operated in a coordinated manner to maximise material gain. They forced open premises using crowbars or cutters, stealing valuables including jewellery, cash, and vehicles,” Mohd Khalid said.
The operation on January 24 led to the arrest of two suspects aged 22 and 26, while four others, aged 22 to 38, are currently in Kluang Prison for unrelated offences.
Like the sexual extortion syndicate, the members of this burglary gang have extensive criminal histories involving armed robbery, break-ins, extortion, disposal of stolen goods, and drug distribution.
“Through these arrests, police have resolved at least 31 burglary cases and effectively neutralised the syndicate operating in Johor.
Case papers were submitted to the Attorney-General’s Department on February 5, and charges under Section 130V(1) of the Penal Code for being members of an organised crime group will be filed at Johor Bahru Sessions Court on February 12,” he confirmed. - February 10, 2026
