Kuala Lumpur - A cybercafe operator was arrested yesterday for alleged gambling activities in Cheras. in the raid at Taman Miharja, the police also seized three computers. it is learnt that the police will investigate the 36-year old operator under section 4(1) of the Federal Teritory Entertainment Act 1992 for running illegal entertainment outlet.

Under the Act, the man will be liable to a fine not exceeding RM10 000 or a jail term not more than 5 years or both upon conviction. Cheras police chief Assistant Commissioner Ali Hanafiah said today police would also initiate action against the licensee of the establishment for contravening licensing guidelines.

Last Friday, Inspector-General of Police, Tan Sri Norian Mai said the police would recommend to the Home Ministry to banish, under the Restricted Residence Act, owners and operators of cybercafes used as gambling outlets.

He said the existing laws were also ineffective in dealing with the problem and that police were preparing to close in on 21 cybercafes found promoting electronic gambling in the city. Following the nationwide crackdown on cybercafes, police had mounted several raids nationwide.

Last November, Malacca police tracked down two cybercafes for illegal gambling activities in Jalan Hang Tuah and Taman Melaka Raya respectively and seized three computers.