Malaysia police affirm intent to work with Interpol against World Cup-linked gambling crime
Authorities may seek international support if investigations uncover cross-border criminal involvement.
Malaysia.- The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) may work with international agencies to combat illegal gambling and potential match-fixing activities linked to the FIFA World Cup 2026. Speaking to reporters after officiating the 42nd Annual General Meeting of the Retired Senior Police Officers Association of Malaysia (RESPA) at the Kuala Lumpur Police Training College, Inspector-General Tan Sri Mohd Khalid Ismail said authorities may seek support from organisations such as Aseanapol and Interpol if investigations uncover cross-border criminal involvement.
He said that illegal betting operators were increasingly using digital tools, mobile applications and online platforms to conceal their activities, making enforcement more challenging than traditional land-based operations. To strengthen surveillance efforts, Mohd Khalid said the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has been instructed to intensify monitoring and enforcement against cyber-enabled gambling activities across all police contingents.
The warning comes as police continue nationwide enforcement under Op Soga XI, launched on June 11 with the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC). The operation has led to the arrest of 52 individuals believed to be involved in illegal gambling activities and the detection of 42 websites allegedly used to advertise and facilitate unlawful gambling operations.
