KUCHING: Two online gambling operations here were crippled by the police, who also arrested 24 foreign suspects, including seven women.

Sarawak police commissioner Datuk Aidi Ismail said police raided two premises located at an apartment in Jalan Datuk Tawi Sli for allegedly acting as a call centre for online gambling activities between 2pm and 10pm on Tuesday.

“The suspects aged between 20 and 47 were all online gambling operators, who were paid RM1,500 a month on top of commissions.

“They were paid to operate the gambling centre, making phone calls to attract customers. Apart from that, they would also approach customers through WhatsApp, Telegram, WeChat, Skype and Facebook,” Aidi explained at a press conference on Wednesday (Sept 22).

He said initial investigation found that both premises had been in operation 24 hours a day for the past two months.

“Based on the records and transactions, the syndicates were making upwards of RM2,500 a day, with a total profit of RM350,000 for the past six months.”

Aidi added that investigation papers had been opened under Section 4(1)(g) of the Common Gaming Houses Act 1953, which provides for a fine of RM5,000 to RM50,000 and imprisonment of up to three years if convicted.

“The foreign suspects are also detained under Section 51(5)(B) of the Immigrations Act 1959/63 for 14 days until Oct 5.”