An intensive initiative targeting illicit internet gambling and lotto schemes has resulted in the capture of 1,871 people by Malaysian authorities. This operation, dubbed Special Op Dadu, was carried out over a fortnight with nationwide raids taking place from September 22 to October 5. The undertaking underscores the government’s increasing emphasis on combating illegal gambling in a bid to safeguard legitimate operators.
Substantial Achievement from Determined Action
The Special Op Dadu operation in Malaysia, led by Shuhaily Zain, head of the Criminal Investigations Department at the Bukit Aman headquarters, had a primary focus of curbing unlawful online gambling and lottery betting. Zain offered a comprehensive overview of the operation’s achievements at a news conference, highlighting notable strides made over the two weeks.
As part of the operation, 1,871 individuals were taken into custody. This included 1,599 men and 312 women. The apprehended individuals ranged from 20 to 60 years old. Among those detained, a few were reportedly involved in public lotteries and lotto ticket purchases. Several of these culprits have already been taken to court, with investigations still ongoing.
As of the 5th of October, 382 investigation papers were successfully closed, their cases involving online gambling and illegal lottery proven and consequently judged in court.
Shuhaily Zain, Director of Criminal Investigations, Bukit Aman Headquarters
Throughout the crackdown, Malaysian authorities conducted various raids which resulted in an array of assets linked to unlawful gambling operations being seized. This included money, information technology equipment, and digital devices. The estimated worth of the confiscated items equated to RM 13,000 ($2750) for online gambling operations and RM 680,000 ($143,808) for illegal lottery schemes.
Securing and Regulating the Market Yields Valuable Advantages
While 1,362 related cases continue to remain open, 43 investigation cases concluded with “no additional action.” Nonetheless, the operation reflects a significant accomplishment in the Malaysian government’s crusade to suppress illegal gambling within its jurisdiction, a problem that has become rampant. Special Op Dadu’s large-scale operation laid a new benchmark in contrast to several minor arrests carried out in 2022.
This large-scale suppression could have important ramifications for the gambling industry in Malaysia, providing legitimate operators with increased trust and assurance in carrying out businesses. The country has seen a speedy recovery post-COVID and is focusing on appealing to overseas tourists by flaunting prominent integrated resorts like Genting Malaysia. While unregulated gambling mainly impacts local residents, strict enforcement of regulation remains crucial for investor confidence.
The Special Op Dadu seemingly signifies a crucial first phase in a broader strategy to rectify the gambling sector in Malaysia. Collaborating with legal enforcement entities remains essential in enforcing the law and shielding the public from unauthorized gambling activities. Despite the country’s illegal market remaining quite entrenched, ongoing efforts have shown that constructive change is possible.
