6 people, aged 21-65, arrested for suspected involvement in illegal horse & lottery betting activities

Five men and one woman aged between 32 and 65 have been arrested for their suspected involvement in running an unlawful remote gambling syndicate.

The arrests followed simultaneous police raids on Jan. 15 at multiple locations across the island, including Boon Lay Avenue, Tengah Drive, Pandan Gardens, Bukit Batok West Avenue 8, Jurong West Street 93 and Jurong West Street 91, according to the Singapore Police Force (SPF).

More than S$70,000 seized during operations

Officers from the Criminal Investigation Department, the Police Intelligence Department and the Special Operations Command took part in the coordinated operation.

More than S$70,000 in cash was seized, along with electronic devices such as computers and mobile phones, as well as gambling paraphernalia, which are being held as case exhibits.

Illegal horse and lottery betting uncovered

Preliminary investigations also revealed that the six suspects were involved in illegal horse betting and lottery betting activities.

They are being investigated for offences under the Gambling Control Act 2022.

Anyone found to be operating an unlawful betting operation can be fined up to S$500,000 and jailed for up to seven years.

Those acting as agents in such operations can face a fine of up to S$200,000 and a jail term of up to seven years.

People who gamble with an illegal gambling service provider can be fined up to S$10,000, jailed for up to six months, or both.

The police said they will continue to take firm enforcement action against those who engage in illegal gambling activities or support such operations as criminal enablers.

They advised members of the public to steer clear of all forms of illegal gambling.

Those who need help for gambling addiction can contact the National Council on Problem Gambling at 1800-6-668-668.

Top photos via Singapore Police Force