Angola’s ISJ reinforces legal gambling market following destruction of 182 illegal gaming machines
Regulator says the operation in Cabinda forms part of wider efforts to combat illegal gambling, protect the formal economy and encourage players to use licensed and supervised operators.
Angola.- Angola’s Institute of Games Supervision (ISJ) has reinforced its commitment to the country’s regulated gambling sector after taking part in the destruction of 182 illegal gaming machines seized during enforcement operations in Cabinda. The regulator said the action forms part of wider efforts to combat illegal gambling, protect the formal economy and encourage players to use licensed and supervised operators.
The machines, commonly known as “nickel hunters”, were destroyed on July 2 and 3 at the Yema Sanitary Landing in the Municipality of Ngoio after being seized by the Criminal Investigation Service (SIC) during micro-operations carried out under Operation Rescue.
The destruction exercise was attended by representatives from the SIC, the ISJ, the Municipal Administration of Ngoio and the Secretary for the Environment.
According to the ISJ, the destruction of the machines is a significant measure in the fight against the illicit exploitation of gambling and demonstrates the commitment of public institutions to legality, public order and the protection of citizens. The regulator said: “The ISJ urges citizens to refrain from participating in illegal gambling practices and to always look for properly licensed and supervised operators.”
The ISJ said illegal gambling undermines the formal economy and the public interest by operating outside the regulated framework. It added that unlicensed operators offer no guarantee of prize payments or player protection mechanisms, expose participants to fraudulent practices, evade tax obligations and can make it easier for minors to access gambling.
The ISJ also called on the public to report suspected illegal gambling locations, equipment or activities through its official channels, saying community cooperation remains essential in combating unlawful gambling operations across the country.
