The Singapore Police Force has launched a crackdown on illegal online gambling activities, resulting in the arrest of 16 individuals, including 11 men and five women, aged between 30 and 67. The operation, which took place on August 21-22, 2024, involved simultaneous raids in several locations across Singapore, including Serangoon North Avenue 4.
The arrested individuals are suspected of being involved in illegal online gambling activities, with five of them allegedly gambling at unlawful gambling places. The remaining 11 individuals are believed to be part of a syndicate that financed, organized, or assisted in the organization of these illegal gambling places, offering online gambling games.
During the operation, the police seized cash amounting to more than $48,000, computers, and other gambling paraphernalia as case exhibits. Four men and one woman will be charged in court on August 23, 2024, with offences under the Gambling Control Act 2022.
The police are taking a serious view of illegal gambling activities and will continue to take tough enforcement action against those involved. Under the Gambling Control Act 2022, individuals found guilty of providing financing for illegal gambling places can face a fine of up to $500,000 and imprisonment of up to seven years. Those who organize, manage, or assist in the organization of illegal gambling places can face a fine of up to $200,000 and imprisonment of up to five years.
Additionally, individuals who allow their premises to be used for illegal gambling activities can face a fine of up to $500,000 and imprisonment of up to seven years. Those who gamble with unlawful gambling service providers can face a fine of up to $10,000, imprisonment of up to six months, or both.
The police are urging members of the public to steer clear of all forms of illegal gambling, warning that they will continue to take tough enforcement action and prosecute those involved to the fullest extent of the law.