The operation, carried out by Bukit Aman’s criminal investigation department (CID) and Sarawak police from April 19 to 23, led to the arrest of 23 men aged between 19 and 44.

In a statement today, CID director M Kumar said the group had been involved in crimes such as robbery causing injury, arson, extortion, armed rioting, and causing serious injuries.

The suspects have been remanded under the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act 2012 until May 18.

“The group’s modus operandi was to carry out extortion activities for the purpose of obtaining protection money.

“The group also carried out attacks on premises that failed to pay protection money and threatened or injured those who refused to follow their demands,” he said.

He said the syndicate, led by a 41-year-old man, had 26 members, many of whom were repeat offenders with records of offences such as murder, gang robbery, arson, housebreaking, vehicle theft, drug trafficking, and illegal gambling activities.

Police also seized a pump gun, several rounds of ammunition, two samurai swords, and two machetes during the operation.

Kumar said three more gang members were still on the run, and that efforts to track them down were ongoing.

“With the arrest of these group members, the police have successfully solved about 25 cases and dismantled an active violent crime syndicate in Sarawak,” Kumar said.

The suspects are expected to be charged under Section 130V(1) of the Penal Code with being members of an organised crime group, which carries a maximum jail term of 20 years upon conviction.

All 26 members, including the three who have yet to be arrested, are expected to be charged at the Kuching sessions court today.