Operation Dadu Mega leads to 28 arrests as authorities seize devices allegedly used to target overseas gambling markets
Law enforcement authorities in Sarawak have uncovered what is believed to be an illegal online gambling call centre operating out of two residential apartment units along Jalan Song, following a targeted enforcement action carried out on 22 December. The raids were conducted after police gathered intelligence under Operation Dadu Mega, an ongoing initiative aimed at identifying and dismantling unlawful gambling operations across the region.
Kuching District Police Chief ACP Alexson Naga Chabu confirmed that the operation was executed by officers from the Criminal Investigation Division, supported by personnel from the D7 Branch of the Sarawak Contingent Police Headquarters. The coordinated action resulted in the detention of 28 individuals suspected of being involved in the illegal operation.
Those arrested included three Malaysian men and 25 foreign nationals, among them one woman. The suspects are aged between 19 and 40 years old. According to police, the presence of a large number of foreign nationals has raised additional concerns regarding possible immigration violations, which are now being examined alongside the gambling-related offences.
During the raids, officers seized multiple computers, mobile phones and other electronic devices believed to have been used to manage and promote online gambling services. Preliminary investigations suggest the syndicate had been active for approximately four months, operating discreetly from the apartment units to avoid detection.
Authorities believe the group functioned as a call centre-style operation, using messaging applications such as WhatsApp, as well as dedicated websites, to market online gambling products. The services were reportedly aimed at customers in overseas markets, including Australia and China, indicating a cross-border dimension to the alleged criminal activity.
All 28 suspects have been remanded for three days by the Kuching Magistrate’s Court to allow investigators to conduct further inquiries. The case is being investigated under the Common Gaming Houses Act 1953, which carries penalties that may include fines and imprisonment upon conviction. In parallel, police are assessing potential breaches of the Immigration Act, including allegations of overstaying and residing in Malaysia without valid travel or employment documentation.
Police have urged members of the public to assist ongoing enforcement efforts by reporting any information related to illegal gambling activities. Tips can be directed to the Kuching IPD Control Centre through official communication channels.
The crackdown reflects a broader regional trend of intensified enforcement against illegal gambling. In a recent operation in Macau, authorities intercepted more than 600 individuals during a winter security campaign and separately arrested 13 suspects accused of running an extortion syndicate targeting casino-related scam operators, underscoring the growing focus on combating organised gambling-related crime across Asia.
