S'pore police arrest 14 men & 3 women, aged 45-76, for suspected involvement in illegal gambling operations

A total of 14 men and three women, aged between 45 and 76, were arrested for their suspected involvement in conducting unlawful remote gambling operations in Singapore.

On Jul. 6, officers from the Criminal Investigation Department, Police Intelligence Department and Special Operations Command conducted simultaneous raids at multiple locations island-wide.

The areas included Yishun, Ang Mo Kio, Toa Payoh, Potong Pasir, Changi, Pasir Ris, Bedok, Joo Chiat, Tampines, Kaki Bukit, West Coast, Bukit Batok and Choa Chu Kang.

More than S$720,000 in cash, electronic devices, such as mobile phones and computers, together with gambling-related paraphernalia, were seized as case exhibits.

Four of the men, aged between 47 and 76, and a 47-year-old woman were charged on Jul. 8 for offences under the Gambling Control Act 2022.

Penalties

Any person found to be involved in conducting an unlawful betting operation as an operator is liable to a fine not exceeding S$500,000 and a jail term not exceeding seven years;

Any person found to be involved in conducting an unlawful betting operation as an agent is liable to a fine not exceeding S$200,000 and a jail term not exceeding seven years.

Any person who gambles with an unlawful gambling service provider is liable to a fine not exceeding S$10,000, a jail term not exceeding six months, or both.

The police reminded members of the public that major international sporting events, such as the Fifa World Cup often lead to an increase in gambling activity, including illegal betting.

The police said it will continue to take firm enforcement action against those involved in illegal gambling activities, to prevent and deter persons from participating in, or profiting from, unlawful gambling activities.

Members of the public were also advised to steer clear of all forms of illegal gambling activities.

Those seeking help for gambling addiction may contact the National Council on Problem Gambling at 1800-6-668-668.