GEORGE TOWN, 9 FEBRUARY, 2012: A syndicate is believed to be behind computerized gambling operations in Penang, according to Penang chief police officer Datuk Wira Ayub Yaakob.

He said police investigations had revealed the syndicate was operating some 10 to 20 such gambling premises which were disguised as 24-hour cyber cafes. 

Speaking to reporters here today, he said despite concerted police efforts to rid the state of the scourge, the syndicate persisted in the activity because of the lucrative returns. 

He said from Jan 1 till Feb 7 this year, Penang police had seized 1,416 computerized gambling machines worth RM2.5 million and bets totaling RM9,998 while 129 operators of the premises and 199 gamblers were arrested. 

In KOTA KINABALU, Sabah police commissioner Datuk Hamza Taib said Sabah police conducted 1,443 anti-gambling raids in the state last year as compared to 680 in 2010.

Speaking at a press conference, he said the raids resulted in the arrests of 983 individuals as compared to 1,179 in 2010. 

- Bernama