MUKAH: The Sarawak Criminal Investigation Department (CID) have arrested 30 individuals, including two women, for alleged involvement gambling activities at a makeshift den in an oil palm plantation on Sunday (Aug 25).
The activities, which included cockfighting, card games, and holo, were conducted along Jalan Balingian-Mukah.
Mukah police chief DSP Muhamad Rizal Alias said the raid, conducted around 3pm, was based on a tip-off and involved both state and district CID teams.
“The presence of the police startled the group and sent the gamblers scrambling in all directions.
“However, their attempts were short-lived as all of them, aged between 25 and 81, were swiftly arrested.
“Also confiscated were 18 live chickens, two dead chickens, two spurs, a weighing scale, various gambling equipment and RM42,090 in cash,” he said.
The case is being investigated under Section 73(1)(g) of the Public Health Veterinary Ordinance 1999, which carries fines up to RM2,000 or six months’ imprisonment, or both.
Muhamad Rizal added that the suspects will also face charges under Section 6(1) of the Common Gaming Houses Act 1953, which provides for fines up to RM5,000 or up to six months’ imprisonment, or both.
He pointed out that one of the suspects, a foreigner, will be investigated under Section 6(1)(c) of the Immigration Act 1959/63 for failing to present valid travel documents.
All suspects are currently being remanded under Section 117 of the Criminal Procedure Code for further investigation.
The public is urged to report any criminal activities to the Mukah district police headquarters (IPD) hotline at 084-871222 or the nearest police station.
