KUCHING: Four premises around the district, suspected of being involved in gambling activities without a licence, had their power supply cut off today.
A joint operation by the Kuching Criminal Investigation Department (CID) and Sarawak Energy Berhad (Sesco) was carried out on premises comprising grocery stores, eateries and houses, from 9am to 2pm.
Kuching police chief ACP Awang Din Awang Gani said the premises were found to be carrying out unlicensed gambling activities and pursuant to Section 21A of the Common Gaming House Act 1953, the police can cut off the power supply if there is a valid reason for such activity.
“Relevant operators are warned not to carry out any gambling activities without a licence as the police will take action as provided in the Common Gaming House Act 1953 and will implement the actions under the Prevention of Crime Act 1959 on those involved,” he said.
In the past eight days (Dec 1 to 8), the Kuching CID team managed to carry out seven raids on the premises and arrested eight individuals.
Investigations are being conducted under Section 4 (1) (c) of the Common Gaming House Act 1953 which provides for a fine of RM5,000 to RM50,000 and imprisonment for up to three years if convicted.
