Gauteng authorities nab four Ethiopians for illegal gambling
The operation also resulted in the confiscation of 28 illegal gambling machines.
South Africa.- A joint intelligence-driven operation has led to the arrest of four Ethiopian nationals found operating illegal gambling machines in Gauteng.
The raid was conducted in the Germiston area on Friday, April 25, by the Gauteng Provincial Head Office Firearms, Liquor and Second Hand Goods (FLASH) unit, in collaboration with the Gauteng Gambling Board (GGB), Gauteng Traffic Police and Gauteng Traffic Wardens.
In addition to the arrests, the operation also resulted in the confiscation of 28 illegal gambling machines. The suspects were charged under the Gauteng Gambling Act (Act 4 of 1995).
The arrests underscore law enforcement’s commitment to protecting the public and enforcing the Gambling Act. They mark another milestone in Gauteng’s ongoing efforts to crack down on illegal gaming operations.
Over the years, the GGB has conducted numerous successful operations against illegal gambling activities. In 2023/24, authorities carried out 438 raids and confiscated 792 illegal gambling machines.
Building on this momentum, over 250 illegal gambling sites were shut down across Gauteng in Q1-Q2 of 2024/25.
According to the GGB, these actions reflect its dedication to fighting illegal gambling, protecting consumers and maintaining a level playing field in the industry.
While most of GGB’s enforcement initiatives have been directed towards physical gambling establishments, the regulator is stepping up its oversight of online gambling.
The province recently announced plans to tax online gambling companies in its jurisdiction. The move comes as Gauteng is seeing a surge in sports betting more than ever, particularly driven by online betting platforms.
