BAU: A foreigner was apprehended by police for allegedly being involved in betting activities for the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Bau district police chief Supt Mohd Haide A Rahman said a team from the Criminal Investigation Department of the police contingent carried out ‘Ops SOGA XI’ last Thursday (June 25).
He said that the arrest was made at around 8.45 pm during a raid at a premise in Bau town following a tip in regards to betting activities.
“During the raid, a 26-year-old Indonesian man was arrested at the premise for allegedly being involved in betting activities.
“The suspect does not have valid travel documents and believed to have entered the country using a different route,” he said.
The police also seized two phones, a mobile printer, a note with betting records and RM900 in cash believed to be used for gamble.
Further investigation revealed the suspect is a bookie, where customers put their bets before being given the receipts.
The suspect also admit to receiving wages of about RM1,200 for the whole tournament and work from 8 pm to 8 am every day.
The case is being investigated under Section 6(3) of the Betting Act 1953 and Section 15(1)(c) of the Immigration Act 1959/63.
Haide said the police is currently intensifying their effort to search for an individual known as ‘Frank’ who is believed to be the mastermind behind the betting activities.
Members of the public are advised not to be involved in such illegal activities, and are encouraged to inform the police of ongoing crimes happening in Bau.
