Papan:An illegal cockfighting gambling syndicate was dismantled in a raid on a hut in the Papan Durian Valley orchard area near Batu Gajah, resulting in the arrest of 40 local men and one Indonesian man.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Perak Police Chief Datuk Mohd Alwi Zainal Abidin reported that the operation, conducted around 7:00 pm, was led by the D7 Division of the Perak Contingent Police Headquarters Criminal Investigation Department (CID). Support was provided by the Perak IPK CID D9 Division, the Batu Gajah District Police Headquarters Criminal Investigation Division, and the Perak Veterinary Services Department.

Among those arrested was a 50-year-old local man who claimed to be the organiser and owner of the premises. Two other individuals were believed to be serving as a referee and an organiser's assistant. During the raid, police seized several items and cash totaling RM114,211, believed to be connected to the illegal activities. Investigations revealed that this gambling operation had been running since early 2026, with betting stakes reaching up to RM20,000 for a single round.

The case is being investigated under Section 6(1) of the Open Gaming Houses Act 1953, Section 32 of the Animal Welfare Act 2015, and Section 6(1)(c) of the Immigration Act 1959/63. Authorities have stated that they will continue to take firm action against individuals or groups involved in illegal gambling and animal cruelty.