In the ongoing efforts to crack down on illegal gambling and online fraud, the Penang authorities have recently frozen over 150 suspected "mule accounts" used for money laundering, recovering illegal funds exceeding 32 million ringgit (about 6.8 million US dollars), demonstrating the state government's firm stance in combating related crimes.
Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow stated in the state legislature that the police, through special operations such as "Ops Dadu," have successfully dismantled multiple criminal networks that rely on "mule accounts" for fund transfers. These accounts are often used to conceal the true flow of earnings from gambling and fraud, and are currently a major focus of the police crackdown.
In response to a question from assemblyman Wong Shu Qi, Penang executive council member Chow Yong Kang revealed enforcement data showing a steady decline in case numbers. In 2023, the state received 2,337 related complaints, with the police arresting 2,681 individuals and initiating 1,390 charges. By 2024, the number of reports had decreased to 1,510, with arrests dropping to 1,810 and charges to 1,084.
"Ops Dadu" is a nationwide enforcement operation in Malaysia targeting illegal gambling, with a core focus on combating online groups that transfer funds through third-party accounts. These "mule accounts" are often registered by unsuspecting individuals or low-risk contractors, used to evade regulation and traceability of funds.
As of March 2025, Penang has recorded 485 related cases, with the police arresting 542 individuals and prosecuting 255 of them. Chow Yong Kang stated that these achievements are inseparable from the enhanced cooperation between multiple departments, also reflecting a significant strengthening of enforcement efforts.
He added that the state government will continue to fully support the actions of the police and related units, focusing on ensuring that Penang residents are protected from illegal gambling and cybercrime, and fostering a safer, more orderly social environment.
