Liberia’s gambling regulator widens raids on illegal mini slot machines
The enforcement drive was triggered by an uptick in unauthorised gaming equipment installed in public spaces.
Liberia.- Liberia’s gambling regulator, the National Lottery Authority (NLA), has intensified its crackdown on illegal mini slot machines, extending raids to four additional counties as part of a broader nationwide compliance drive.
In a statement issued on April 2, the authority confirmed that ongoing operations now cover Lofa, Bong, Margibi and Grand Bassa counties. The move follows earlier seizures in Montserrado County, where multiple unlicensed machines were removed from circulation.
The NLA explained that the enforcement drive was triggered by an uptick in unauthorised gaming equipment installed in public spaces without any form of regulatory control. According to the regulator, these machines operate outside the country’s licensing framework and are frequently accessible to minors, raising compliance and public welfare concerns.
Under Liberia’s gaming regulations, all gambling devices must be licensed and operated within approved locations. The authority maintains that unregulated machines bypass age verification requirements and responsible gaming controls, contributing to risks such as underage participation and problem gambling.
The current operations are being led by Deputy Director General for operations, Cristian K. Cooper, who stated that all illegal machines identified during the raids will be seized. Operators found in violation may face investigation and prosecution under the NLA Act and Regulation 001, which govern gaming activities in Liberia.
The NLA also reiterated that gambling by individuals below the legal age remains prohibited. Licensed operators are required to enforce age restrictions, and any breach could result in penalties, including licence revocation, fines or criminal charges.
Beyond enforcement, the authority is seeking cooperation from local stakeholders. It called on community leaders, government officials and the public to report illegal gambling activities, noting that community input is necessary for effective monitoring.
