KUANTAN, MALAYSIA: Police have identified several local gambling syndicates out to make a killing during the general election, Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Musa Hassan said.

He said the police were in the midst of monitoring their activities closely before taking action.

"Once we have gathered the necessary evidence, we will arrest them," he told reporters Wednesday after attending a briefing on the state preparations for the coming polls here.

Musa said his personnel were also closely watching the circulation of SMSes containing racial and religious issues to incite hatred among the people.

"We view this matter seriously and will not hesitate to take stern action against the perpetrators.

"I hope whoever is doing this will stop as their irresponsible action could jeopardise the peace and harmony in the country," he said, adding that the people should take heed of his reminder to avoid getting themselves into trouble.

On the police reports over the availability of the indelible ink, Musa said police were still investigating the matter and would be interviewing the complainants in Perlis, Kedah and Kelantan.

He said in the course of investigations so far, they had yet to come in contact with such liquid in any public premises.

Musa also assured that all police reports lodged including those by the Opposition parties would be looked into without fear or favour.

"We will be fair in discharging our duties and investigate any report to ascertain whether there is any basis.

"Even gatherings which are held without a permit by any contesting party will not be allowed," he said.