A 30-year-old man was arrested for his suspected involvement as a bookmaker, a 49-year-old woman was taken into custody on suspicion of having provided unlawful remote gambling services and five other men (aged between 30 and 72) were arrested for allegedly having used the illegal gambling services.
Police seized almost S$9,000 (US$6,600), five mobile phones and gambling-connected equipment in an operation that took place alongside Ang Mo Kio Avenue.
According to laws in Singapore, those found guilty of placing bets using illegal gambling services face fines of up to S$5,000 and/or up to six months jail time.
Additionally, anyone convicted of organising, managing, offering or supervising unlicensed bookmaking or gambling services risk a fine of between S$20,000 and S$200,000, and up to five years in prison.
Gaming is a common recreational activity in Singapore; however, gambling dens and public gambling are illegal, according to the Common Gaming Houses Act. Jackpot machines are also banned in Singapore, in accordance with the Private Lotteries Act. Only legalised casinos and gambling organisations can offer certain public gaming services in Singapore.
The Singapore Police Force mentioned the investigations are ongoing and commented: “The police take a serious view against all forms of illegal gambling activities and will continue to take tough enforcement actions, and prosecute those involved in accordance with the law.
“Members of the public are advised against engaging in any forms of illegal gambling activity.”
