PDRM Ready to Seek Interpol Aid as World Cup 2026 Betting Syndicates Come Under Scrutiny
KUALA LUMPUR: The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) is prepared to work with international law enforcement agencies, including Interpol and Aseanapol, if investigations reveal that illegal gambling or match-fixing syndicates linked to the FIFA World Cup 2026 are operating across borders.
Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Mohd Khalid Ismail said the force is currently focusing its monitoring efforts on local syndicates but remains open to expanding cooperation with foreign authorities should the need arise.
According to him, illegal gambling syndicates are becoming increasingly sophisticated, relying heavily on digital technology and online platforms to conduct betting activities while avoiding detection.
“If cooperation with international agencies such as Interpol and Aseanapol becomes necessary, we are ready to do so.
“PDRM will not compromise with any party involved in illegal gambling or match-fixing activities,” he said after officiating the 42nd Annual General Meeting of the Retired Senior Police Officers Association of Malaysia (RESPA) at the Kuala Lumpur Police Training College in Cheras today.
Mohd Khalid said one of the biggest challenges facing law enforcement agencies today is the rapid evolution of gambling syndicates’ operating methods.
He said many groups have moved away from traditional physical premises and are now using online applications, digital platforms and smart devices to run their operations discreetly.
“Their methods have changed significantly.
“In the past they relied heavily on physical operations, but today they use digital platforms and technologies that are much harder to detect,” he said.
He added that PDRM is constantly enhancing its monitoring capabilities and strengthening cooperation with relevant agencies to stay ahead of emerging threats.
Mohd Khalid also revealed that he has instructed the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) in every state contingent to intensify surveillance and take firm action against cyber gambling syndicates.
According to him, proactive enforcement is necessary to prevent illegal betting activities from expanding and causing wider social harm.
“We want to ensure that cyber gambling activities are curbed comprehensively.
“Enforcement action will continue regardless of who is involved,” he said.
Earlier, Bukit Aman CID director Datuk M. Kumar announced that 58 individuals suspected of involvement in illegal gambling activities had been arrested under Op Soga XI, a nationwide operation launched on June 11.
The integrated operation, conducted in collaboration with the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), also led to the seizure of RM25,684 in cash and betting proceeds amounting to RM488,582.
Authorities further detected 42 websites believed to have been used to promote illegal gambling activities.
Mohd Khalid noted that major sporting events such as the FIFA World Cup have historically attracted illegal betting syndicates seeking to profit from heightened public interest.
He stressed that any attempt to organise illegal betting or manipulate match outcomes would be investigated thoroughly, with offenders facing strict legal action.
“PDRM will not allow any syndicate to exploit major sporting events for illegal gains.
“We remain committed to protecting the integrity of sports and ensuring the safety and well-being of society,” he said.
