The Royal Malaysia Police, PDRM, have arrested 331 individuals and the seizure of RM145,005.09 in cash under Ops Soga XI, a nationwide enforcement operation targeting illegal sports betting and online gambling activities in conjunction with the FIFA World Cup 2026.

Bukit Aman Criminal Investigation Department (CID) director Comm Datuk M. Kumar said the operation uncovered betting transactions worth more than RM2.6 million. The operation began on June 11 and will continue until July 19, during which 293 raids were conducted nationwide.

Of the 331 suspects arrested, 312 are men and 19 are women, while 234 are locals and 97 are foreigners. Comm Kumar said authorities also seized RM145,005.09 in cash, and the total betting value linked to the cases amounted to RM2,625,529.46.

The operation is being carried out in collaboration with the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), particularly to monitor gambling-related advertisements and promotional activities on websites and social media platforms.


Authorities identified 185 websites, online platforms, applications, and social media accounts being used for football betting and gambling promotions. Action will be taken with the assistance of the MCMC to block websites and remove online content.

All suspects have been brought to the respective district police headquarters for further investigation under the Betting Act 1953 and the Immigration Act 1959/63, where applicable. Investigations will also be conducted under the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act 2001.

Comm Kumar said police will continue enforcement operations and coordinate strategically with relevant agencies to combat illegal gambling and urged the public to come forward with information to help authorities address the problem.