Malaysian police have arrested 331 people and uncovered more than RM2.62 million in illegal betting transactions as part of Op Soga XI, a nationwide enforcement campaign targeting unlicensed sports betting and online gambling linked to the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Bukit Aman Criminal Investigation Department director Datuk M. Kumar said the operation, which began on June 11th and runs until July 19th, has seen 293 raids conducted across the country. Of those arrested, 312 are men and 19 are women. Malaysian citizens account for 234 of the suspects, with the remaining 97 being foreign nationals.
Authorities seized MYR145,005 ($33,100) in cash in addition to uncovering the betting transactions. Investigators also identified 185 online platforms – including websites, mobile applications, and social media accounts – being used to facilitate football wagering and promote illegal gambling activity. Police are working with the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission to block the sites and remove associated content.
All suspects have been referred to district police headquarters for investigation under the Betting Act 1953 and the Immigration Act 1959/63, with additional probes being conducted under the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act 2001. Kumar said authorities would continue intensifying enforcement and urged members of the public to report information on illegal betting networks, which he said are increasingly exploiting digital platforms to expand their reach.
Op Soga XI is the latest iteration of a recurring Royal Malaysia Police enforcement framework timed to coincide with major international football tournaments. The 2022 Qatar World Cup edition, Op Soga IX, resulted in more than 400 arrests within its first three weeks.
