Mini casinos in Zimbabwe homes spark authorities’ fury
Authorities crack down as unlicensed gaming machines flood homes in high-density suburbs throughout the country.
Zimbabwe.- In an unwavering move to restore order in the gambling sector, Zimbabwean authorities have delivered a clear message that anyone operating a gambling machine must register it or face legal consequences. Many machines have been found in private homes, with some owners even converting entire rooms into makeshift gambling hubs.
Unlicensed gambling machines, often brightly coloured “fruit machines” adorned with cherries, bells and stars, are rapidly spreading across homes and informal shops in densely populated suburbs. The influx of these devices is frustrating licensed operators and regulators alike, while siphoning funds from the legitimate economy.
The Lotteries and Gaming Board warned that all gambling devices must be registered and located only in licensed venues, “not informal tuck-shops or backrooms”. Addressing concerns over illegal gambling, the Board’s interim secretary Dr Misheck Chingozha urged citizens to support legal betting and reject unlawful practices.
“This behaviour must be rejected by all forward-looking citizens and responsible players. Legitimate gambling contributes to society and government revenue streams,” said Dr Chingozha, according to the Herald online.
Illegal gambling hits Zimbabwe hard
The crackdown, led by the Lotteries and Gaming Board alongside the Zimbabwe Republic Police, follows growing complaints from residents who reported illegal machines operating in residential areas. Some homeowners have gone as far as converting whole rooms into informal gaming hubs.
“Gaming is a highly regulated space, and there is no room for criminality in a progressive Zimbabwe. We stand united in saying ‘NO’ to illegal gaming operations,” said Dr Chingozha.
The Board warned that the unchecked spread of these machines threatens public morals and the country’s economic stability by diverting funds from legal operators and fuelling underground networks.
“As the regulator of the gaming industry in Zimbabwe, we make it unequivocally clear that importing, installing and operating unapproved gambling devices is illegal. We strongly urge individuals across the country to immediately cease all illegal gaming activities,” added Dr Chingozha.
The call for compliance follows a recent major raid where 84 illegal machines were seized and publicly destroyed.
