The Singapore Police Force (SPF) has arrested 19 men and one woman, aged between 24 and 78, for their suspected involvement in conducting unlawful remote betting operations.
During the operation, officers seized more than S$118,000 in cash, computers, mobile phones, and gambling-related documents, said SPF in a press release. The police also froze 70 related bank accounts for investigations and to prevent the dissipation of suspected criminal proceeds.
Police officers from the Criminal Investigation Department, Police Intelligence Department, and Special Operations Command conducted multiple raids on Dec 6 across Ang Mo Kio, Bedok, Bukit Batok, Punggol, Serangoon and Tampines.
Three of the men arrested were charged in court on Dec 7 with offences under the Gambling Control Act 2022.
Under Section 18(2) of the Gambling Control Act 2022, any person who is found to be involved in conducting an unlawful betting operation as an operator shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding S$500,000 and imprisonment for up to seven years.
Those found to be involved in unlawful betting operations as an agent shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding S$200,000 and imprisonment for up to five years.
Meanwhile, those who gamble with an unlawful gambling service provider can be sentenced to a fine of up to S$10,000, imprisonment for up to six months, or both.
“The police will continue to clamp down on criminal activities, such as those conducting unlawful remote betting operations. Those found engaging in illicit activities will be dealt with sternly in accordance with the law,” said SPF.
“Members of the public are advised to steer clear of all forms of illegal gambling activities.”/TISG
Nearly 6 out of 10 people in Singapore think online gambling should be banned