Malaysian police have arrested 554 people and carried out 442 raids nationwide in a sweeping operation targeting illegal sports betting during the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2026.

In a statement on Monday, Bukit Aman Criminal Investigation Department (CID) director Comm Datuk M. Kumar said the ongoing Ops Soga XI operation resulted in the arrest of 341 Malaysians and 213 foreign nationals.

Police also seized RM167,062.09 in cash and uncovered betting wagers worth RM3.25 million linked to the illegal gambling activities, he said.

Authorities further identified 263 websites, online platforms and mobile applications used for football betting. Efforts are underway to disable the platforms with the assistance of the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC).

All suspects have been taken to the respective district police headquarters for further investigation.

Police are also investigating possible offences under the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act 2001 (AMLATFPUAA).

Kumar said police would intensify enforcement operations and strengthen cooperation with relevant agencies to curb illegal gambling activities.

He also urged the public to provide information to the authorities to help combat illegal betting and related crimes.