Penang authorities have intensified efforts to dismantle illegal gambling networks in Malaysia, freezing more than 150 mule accounts that were reportedly used to facilitate online gambling and digital fraud. The total sum of funds tied to these accounts exceeds RM32 million, reflecting the scale of illicit financial activity being targeted in the state.

Ops Dadu continues to disrupt gambling syndicates:

Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow (DAP – Padang Kota) addressed the state legislative assembly by outlining the outcomes of ongoing enforcement operations, most notably Ops Dadu. This nationwide initiative focuses on dismantling online gambling syndicates and cybercrime rings by tracking their financial operations and logistics, which often rely on layers of mule accounts.

“Police are conducting ongoing operations like Ops Dadu to cripple gambling and scam syndicates,” Chow stated in direct response to an inquiry from Joseph Ng Soon Siang (DAP – Air Itam). According to New Straits Times, he emphasized that the police have maintained pressure on these illegal groups through frequent raids and coordinated crackdowns.

The numbers presented by Chow demonstrate a downward trend in gambling-related offenses. In 2023, authorities recorded 2,337 complaints, which led to 2,681 arrests and 1,390 court charges. The following year saw a drop to 1,510 complaints, with 1,810 arrests and 1,084 charges. As of March 2025, 485 cases had been registered, resulting in 542 arrests and 255 formal charges.

Federal and local agencies coordinate efforts:

In addition to law enforcement operations, Chow pointed to broader federal involvement. Amendments to the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 have introduced stricter penalties targeting cybercrime, including digital gambling platforms. The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has also played a major role by blocking thousands of gambling websites—6,381 between 2020 and 2022 alone.

MCMC’s efforts have extended beyond web blocks. Over 212,000 phone lines used to send gambling-related spam messages have been terminated. Chow noted that enforcement now extends to physical infrastructure as well, with utilities such as electricity and water being disconnected at locations found to be hosting illegal gambling operations.

The Chief Minister highlighted that inter-agency cooperation has been vital. Police have been working closely with MCMC, the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC), and municipal authorities to carry out joint operations. These partnerships have helped streamline enforcement procedures and increase the reach of Ops Dadu.

Beyond enforcement, the government has taken steps to raise public awareness about the risks associated with online gambling and cyber scams. Chow noted that outreach programs have been conducted across various media platforms, as well as within schools, to educate both adults and youth about the dangers and legal consequences of participating in or facilitating these crimes.

Chow also acknowledged the increasing complexity of these syndicates, which often employ sophisticated, multilayered structures to avoid detection. He urged social media platforms to adopt artificial intelligence tools that can accelerate the identification and removal of illegal gambling content.

Additionally, he spoke in favor of compulsory licensing for social media platforms operating in Malaysia, stating that it would help boost platform accountability and facilitate more efficient enforcement action.

The Chief Minister concluded by reiterating the Penang government’s commitment to supporting enforcement agencies in safeguarding the welfare and security of its citizens.