Illegal gambling tops agenda at North West Gambling Board’s LPM forum
The forum brought together limited payout machine (LPM) and route operators to discuss key issues affecting the sector.
South Africa.- The North West Gambling Board (NWGB) has highlighted stronger enforcement against illegal gambling as a regulatory priority during its Quarterly Limited Payout Machines (LPM) Forum held on Friday, August 7, in Rustenburg.
The forum brought together limited payout machine (LPM) and route operators to discuss key issues affecting the sector, including the rollout of LPMs, illegal gambling, industry revenue performance, licence availability, application turnaround times and legislative developments.
Addressing stakeholders, acting chief executive Boitumelo Qalinge stressed the need for a more proactive approach to tackling illegal gambling, saying stronger enforcement efforts must be supported by closer collaboration with law enforcement agencies.
He also emphasised the importance of expanding public awareness initiatives to help communities recognise unlicensed gambling operations and understand the risks associated with participating in illegal gambling activities.
Stakeholders were further informed that the North West Gambling Bills have been approved by the Provincial Legislature, a milestone that is expected to strengthen the province’s regulatory framework and enhance the Board’s ability to combat illegal gambling.
The Board said the legislative developments would improve regulatory oversight while providing additional tools to address unlawful gambling operations and support a more effective licensing environment.
The forum also included updates on the rollout of limited payout machines across the province, the sector’s revenue performance, licence availability and application processing timelines.
The Board said it will continue working with industry stakeholders to protect licensed operators and promote responsible gambling in the province.
