Malaysian police dismantle two major crime syndicates in Johor, arresting eight suspects for sextortion and burglary operations causing over RM4 million in losses.
KUALA LUMPUR: Police have dismantled two organised crime syndicates in Johor responsible for total losses exceeding RM4 million.
Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Mohd Khalid Ismail announced the success of operations codenamed Ops Bugil and Ops Shutter.
Ops Bugil targeted an online sexual extortion ring active since early 2024, causing losses over RM3 million.
Six male suspects aged 18 to 33 were arrested on Jan 15 under the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act 2012.
They will be charged at the Johor Bahru Sessions Court on Feb 12, while five other members remain at large.
“This syndicate created fake social media accounts or posed as attractive women to lure victims into explicit video calls,” Mohd Khalid said.
He explained the group then sent phishing links to access victims’ mobile data and used recordings for blackmail.
The syndicate was also involved in human trafficking, recruiting locals including minors with false salary promises.
Victims were taken to countries believed to include Laos and Cambodia and forced to work up to 12 hours daily.
“Victims’ identification documents were confiscated and they faced physical and sexual abuse if they disobeyed instructions,” he added.
Meanwhile, Ops Shutter solved 32 house and shop break-in cases in Johor from 2022 to October 2025.
This burglary gang caused losses of about RM1 million before being neutralised.
Two suspects aged 22 and 26 were detained under SOSMA in a Jan 24 operation.
Four other gang members are already serving prison sentences at Kluang Prison for other offences.
“The gang targeted unoccupied terrace houses and business premises with shutter doors,” Mohd Khalid stated.
He said they used tools like crowbars and cutters to steal valuables including jewellery, cash and vehicles.
All suspects from both operations will be charged under Section 130B(1) of the Penal Code.
