POLICE have uncovered an alleged online betting operation centred on the 2026 FIFA World Cup following a raid on an unlicensed entertainment premises in Taman Wahyu, Sentul, which authorities believe was being used as a betting call centre.
The operation, carried out at about 3.30am on Sunday by the Anti-Vice, Gambling and Secret Societies Division of the Criminal Investigation Department at the Sentul District Police Headquarters, resulted in the arrest of 34 individuals.
Kuala Lumpur Police Chief Datuk Fadil Marsus said those detained comprised 28 Chinese nationals, three Myanmar nationals, one South Korean national, one Thai national and one Malaysian woman, all aged between 20 and 40.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the premises was being used to manage, organise and promote online gambling activities involving football betting related to the 2026 FIFA World Cup while simultaneously operating as an unlicensed entertainment outlet.
"Initial investigations found that the premises was being used to manage, organise and promote online gambling involving betting on the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while also operating as an unlicensed entertainment centre."
He said investigators believe the operation had been active since the middle of June and operated daily between 5pm and 3am.
During the raid, police seized 15 mobile phones of various brands, two laptop computers, RM60 in cash and a range of musical equipment believed to have been used at the premises.
Fadil said the case is being investigated under Section 4(1)(c) and Section 6(3) of the Betting Act 1953, Section 4(1) of the Federal Territories Entertainment Act 1992, and Section 6(1) of the Immigration Act 1959/63.
Investigations are continuing to determine the full extent of the operation and identify any additional individuals involved. - July 6, 2026
