Kuching police bust six in multi-WhatsApp online gambling scam

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By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, Feb 6: Kuching police have arrested six locals in a crackdown on a call centre running a multi-WhatsApp online gambling scam that targeted unsuspecting residents.

Kuching District Police Chief ACP Alexson Naga Chabu said the suspects, namely four men and two women aged between 18 and 35, were caught on Jan 4 at a shoplot on Jalan Tun Jugah.

Officers seized computers, mobile phones, SIM cards, and other devices used to push fake gambling ads to the public.

“Preliminary investigations revealed that the syndicate operated as a call centre, distributing false advertisements for non-existent online gambling games through a multi-WhatsApp application, targeting local residents.

“All six suspects are believed to have been working full-time in the operation,” he said in a statement last night (Feb 5).

The case is being investigated under Section 420 of the Penal Code for cheating and dishonestly inducing delivery of property, which carries a jail term of one to ten years, whipping, and a fine upon conviction.

Investigations are also proceeding under Section 120(b) of the Penal Code for criminal conspiracy, punishable by imprisonment of up to six months, a fine, or both.

“All suspects were brought before the Kuching Magistrate’s Court on Feb 5, where a four-day remand order was granted,” Alexson added.

He also urged the public to come forward with any information related to criminal activity to assist in crime prevention. Information can be provided at any nearby police station or through the Kuching District Control Centre at 082-244444. – DayakDaily

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