Six held over online gambling syndicate targeting Australians

IPOH: Six men suspected of working for an online gambling syndicate targeting Australians have been arrested in Kamunting, Taiping.

Perak police chief Datuk Mohd Alwi Zainal Abidin said the suspects, aged between 22 and 31, earned between RM6,000 and RM10,000 monthly.

They were arrested during a raid on a rented three-storey terraced house at 8.05pm on Tuesday.

Initial investigations revealed that the syndicate had been operating since July, with the suspects tasked with recruiting customers and promoting online gambling platforms.

"The raid was conducted by a team from the Perak police headquarters Commercial Crime Investigation Department, together with the Taiping police headquarters CCID.

"Analysis of the seized computers revealed that the syndicate was involved in online gambling activities targeting Australian citizens," he said at a press conference today.

Alwi said the syndicate used Telegram and WeChat to communicate with customers and operated three online gambling platforms — One2Bet-Aus, Roladoll-Aus and Majesty777-Aus.

He said gambling packages were offered at prices ranging from AUD30 to AUD200 (RM80 to RM535).

"Investigations also found that Australian bank accounts were used to receive payments, while SIM cards in the seized mobile phones were linked to Australian telecommunications providers.

"The syndicate also used profile pictures of European women to attract customers to its gambling platforms," he said.

He said the police seized 18 mobile phones of various brands, 10 computer monitors, six central processing units (CPUs) and a router worth RM35,000 during the raid.

Alwi added that the suspects used the house's back door to enter and exit in an attempt to avoid detection.

"All six suspects have been remanded for four days, from Wednesday until tomorrow, to facilitate further investigations," he said.

The case is being investigated under Section 420 of the Penal Code for cheating, which carries a maximum jail term of 10 years, whipping, and a fine upon conviction.

Asked how many Australians had fallen victim and the total losses involved, he said both matters were still under investigation.

He saidonline scam syndicates operated across national borders by exploiting advances in communication technology and frequently changing locations to evade authorities.

"However, the police will continue to take action against any activities linked to these online scam syndicates," he said.

He also urged the public not to assist such syndicates by renting out premises or supplying communication equipment.