Outdated slot machines crushed in South Africa
Regulator destroys 90 obsolete casino machines in an effort to stop tampering, resale and underground betting in the country.
South Africa.- In a decisive move to tighten control over the gambling sector, South Africa has destroyed 90 outdated slot machines as part of an aggressive clampdown on illegal gaming activity.
The obsolete machines, in use at Emnotweni Casino in Mpumalanga, were removed last week and crushed this week. The Mpumalanga Economic Regulator (MER) carried out the destruction, ensuring the equipment was rendered completely unusable.
This operation is part of the MER’s ongoing mission to eliminate the risk of machine tampering, illegal resale and the rise of unlicensed gambling dens. According to MER spokesperson Cedric Chiloane, the destruction also serves as a public warning.
“By conducting these raids and confiscations in the illegal market, we are sending a clear message. Even spaza shops (informal shops) must understand that they are not allowed to have these machines,” said Chiloane, according to the Guardian Newspaper.
The outdated gambling machines were destroyed under strict regulatory supervision of the MER, sending a clear message that rules, safety and fair play in the industry are mandatory.
The MER has stepped up its enforcement efforts in recent years. “Last year, we destroyed about 119 machines, and we have since continued to search for illegal machines, including Chinese roulette gambling machines found at spaza shops,” Chiloane said.
Illegal gambling in South Africa extends far beyond outdated slot machines. It includes street-side card and dice games as well as online gambling via unlicensed websites. Authorities are now working hard to dismantle these networks and ensure the public engages only with properly licensed operators.
Chiloane stressed the importance of people knowing exactly where they’re placing their bets. He said any venue operating legally should be able to show proof of registration without hesitation and urged gamblers to be careful. Betting with unverified operators, he warned, opens the door to serious risks.
By clearing these old devices off the board, South African authorities aren’t just tidying up. They’re shutting down loopholes, locking out dodgy operators and doubling down on its mission to keep the country’s gaming scene sharp, secure and trouble-free.
