Malaysian police launch nationwide raids on Sarawak-linked gang network, 30 arrested
Around 30 people have been arrested in a nationwide crackdown on a Sarawak-linked gang network tied to extortion and illegal operations. Police are now seeking 14 more suspects and urging the public to come forward with information.
- Malaydian police arrested about 30 individuals in a nationwide anti-gang operation targeting a Sarawak-linked network.
- Authorities are seeking 14 suspects believed to be key figures still at large.
- The group is suspected of involvement in extortion, illegal operations, and financial crimes.
SARAWAK, MALAYSIA: Police in Malaysia have launched a large-scale nationwide operation targeting a suspected gang network linked to activities in Sarawak, resulting in the arrest of approximately 30 individuals and an ongoing manhunt for 14 more suspects.
The coordinated enforcement action, conducted on 14 April 2026, involved multiple locations across Sarawak and other parts of Malaysia.
Authorities described the operation as intelligence-driven and centrally coordinated at the national level.
The raids were carried out jointly by Bukit Aman’s D7 Anti-Gangsterism Unit and D9 Special Investigation Unit, in collaboration with the Sarawak Police Contingent Headquarters (IPK Sarawak).
The operation focused on dismantling a syndicate believed to have been actively operating in the region.
All individuals detained in the raids are currently being held in custody pending further investigation.
Authorities have not disclosed the full scope of charges but indicated that the suspects are being investigated for multiple criminal activities.
Focus on organised crime network
According to police, the operation targeted a network allegedly involved in gangsterism-related activities, including extortion, protection money collection, illegal business operations, and illicit financial dealings.
The group is believed to have links to an organisation identified as “24 Group Pertubuhan Kebajikan GI SI”.
The group had previously been active on social media and involved in high-profile community activities, with local politicians invited to attend their ceremonies and events.
Authorities did not elaborate on the structure or legal status of the organisation but indicated that it was central to the investigation.
The D7 unit had reportedly been monitoring the network over an extended period through intelligence-gathering efforts before initiating enforcement action.
Nationwide coordination and intelligence efforts
Police emphasised that the operation was the result of extensive intelligence work and inter-agency coordination.
The involvement of both D7 and D9 units reflects a dual focus on gangsterism and complex criminal investigations.
Authorities identified several premises across Malaysia linked to the network, leading to simultaneous raids designed to prevent suspects from evading arrest.
The scale of the operation highlights ongoing concerns about the reach and organisation of criminal syndicates operating within Malaysia. By targeting multiple locations at once, police aimed to weaken the network’s operational capacity.
Officials indicated that such operations are part of a sustained effort to address organised crime, particularly groups involved in financial exploitation and unlawful business activities.
Fourteen suspects still at large
Despite the arrests, police confirmed that 14 individuals believed to be key members of the network remain at large. Authorities have released their identities and are seeking public assistance to locate them.
The individuals are identified as:
Yong How (920912-13-5461), Tay Ee Hung (850821-13-5449), Haikal Ling Abdullah (820607-13-5555), Ho Seng Ching (880917-13-5029), Yeo Lip Hong (950824-13-5397), Lee Xuan Nguon (921015-13-6207), Yong Yu Xuan (930927-13-5463), Lim Pang Yee (840929-13-5601), Gilbert Sim Syn Hou (900523-13-7131), Malcolm Kho Cheok Kwang (980226-13-5263), Choo Hua Lee (831007-13-5387), Sim Tze Rong (850807-13-5573), Jacque Tan Hung Kheng (980917-13-5385), and Harry Bong Heng Yong (870621-52-6101).
Police described these individuals as persons of interest in the investigation and urged members of the public to provide any relevant information that could assist in locating them.
Public urged to assist investigations
Law enforcement agencies have appealed to the public for cooperation in tracking down the remaining suspects.
Members of the public with information have been advised to contact designated officers or hotlines.
Authorities provided contact details for Inspector Richard at IPK Sarawak and the Criminal Investigation Department (JSJ) hotline at Bukit Aman.
Police stressed that public cooperation is essential in ensuring the success of such operations, particularly in cases involving organised networks with multiple members and locations.
Gang-related crime has long been a focus of enforcement units such as D7, which specialises in anti-gangsterism operations.
The involvement of D9 further indicates the complexity of the case, suggesting potential links to broader criminal activities.
