Southeast Asia’s 3rd-richest country arrests over 300 suspects in World Cup football betting crackdown

Director of the Criminal Investigation Department Datuk M. Kumar said the nationwide operation was launched in response to a significant increase in illegal football betting during the tournament, which runs from June 11 to July 19.

Police conducted 293 raids across the country, arresting 331 suspects, including 312 men and 19 women. Of those detained, 234 were Malaysian nationals and 97 were foreigners.

Authorities also seized more than 145,000 MYR (over US$30,000) in cash and uncovered illegal betting transactions worth an estimated 2.63 million MYR.

In a statement, the Criminal Investigation Department said police are working closely with the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) to block gambling-related advertisements and promotional activities on websites and social media platforms.

Kumar added that authorities had identified 185 websites, online platforms, applications and social media accounts being used for football betting and gambling promotions.

According to the official, all suspects are being investigated under the Betting Act 1953 and the Immigration Act 1959/63.

Investigations will also be conducted under the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act 2001.

Police will continue enforcement operations and strategic cooperation with relevant agencies to combat illegal gambling, he said, urging the public to come forward with information to help the authorities tackle the problem.