GEORGE TOWN, Sept 23 — Malaysia’s police force is targeting organised crime in a continuation of the Ops Cantas Khas, with focus on protection rackets.

Deputy Home Minister Datuk Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar said there have been reports of gangs going around demanding “protection money” from the public, especially during festivals.

“Recently, with Deepavali coming up, we know some gangs have been going around demanding for protection money, so we will be launching an operation to nab these gangs nationwide,” he told a press conference after attending the Penang State Investiture Ceremony at Dewan Sri Pinang.

“These gangs think the police don’t know about it, but the police are aware and will be moving in on them through the continuation of Ops Cantas Khas,” he said.

He said the police have identified 23 additional secret societies involved in drugs, gambling and other criminal activities nationwide, on top of the 49 gangs already on their radar.

“The 23 identified are similar to the illegal gangs, such as Geng 08, Geng 04, Tiga Line and Double 7, which are involved in criminal activities like drugs trafficking, extortion, murders and use of firearms in gang fights,” he said.

He urged the public to cooperate with the police and to immediately report to the police if they are approached by any gangs demanding protection money.

“We need public assistance to nab these gangs,” he said.