KUALA LUMPUR: Police will take action not just on gambling syndicates, but owners who rent out their property for illegal purposes as well.
"Prior to this, our focus was on the syndicates but now we will be taking action against all those connected to illegal gambling, including owners of premises who have abused their business licenses," said Bukit Aman CID director Comm Datuk Huzir Mohamed (pic).
He said action can be taken under the Prevention of Crime Act (Poca) and Anti-Money Laundering and Anti-Terrorism Financing Act (Amlafta).
"We are seriously considering using these two Acts as certain gambling syndicates have resumed operations.
"Bukit Aman CID has been going all out to combat illegal online gambling since early last year but the activity has returned nationwide, especially in Selangor," he said on Sunday (Aug 9).
"We will cooperate more closely with agencies such as Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) and local councils.
"We will also identify (those involved) and recommend to local councils to revoke the business licenses of those in cahoots with illegal gambling syndicates," Comm Huzir said.
Agencies such as TNB would be tasked with cutting off electricity to the premises used by the syndicates, he added.
Comm Huzir said every OCPD would also be instructed to identify and track down premises owners who assist gambling syndicates in their respective districts.
"I am confident we will be able to eradicate the illegal gambling network, in stages," he said.
Comm Huzir also urged the people to inform the police of illegal gambling activities so that immediate action can be taken.
On Saturday (Aug 8), videos showing illegal gambling taking place and contraband cigarettes being sold in Bandar Baru Sungai Buloh went viral on social media.
An eight-minute video garnered over two million views and another 13-minute clip has over 4.5 million views.
A complainant also alleged that his life could be in danger for revealing the illegal activities.
