17 people arrested, over $720,000 seized in islandwide gambling bust
Summary
On July 6, Singapore police conducted simultaneous raids across multiple districts, targeting unlawful remote gambling operations. Seventeen people—fourteen men and three women aged 45 to 76—were arrested, and more than $720,000 in cash, electronic devices, and gambling paraphernalia were seized. Officers from the Criminal Investigation Department, Police Intelligence Department, and Special Operations Command carried out the operation. Four of the arrested individuals will face court charges on July 8 under the Gambling Control Act, with potential fines up to $500,000 and up to seven years imprisonment if convicted. Investigations into the remaining twelve suspects continue. The crackdown comes amid heightened gambling activity during major sporting events like the FIFA World Cup 2026, prompting the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Ministry of Social and Family Development to intensify enforcement and public education on problem gambling. The police urge the public to avoid illegal gambling and offer support through the National Council on Problem Gambling.
(Source:The Straits Times)