North West Gambling Board Intensifies Crackdown on Illegal Operations to Boost Compliance
The North West Gambling Board (NWGB), in collaboration with key enforcement partners including the South African Police Service (SAPS), Home Affairs Immigration, Liquor Regulation, Environmental Services, Consumer Affairs, Municipal Health, newly appointed Board members, and Safety Officers, has recently launched a compliance operation aimed at curbing illegal gambling activities.
The operation, led by the MEC for Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), Ms. Bitsa Lenkopane, and the Acting CEO of the NWGB, Mr. Boitumelo Qalinge, targeted illegal gambling activities that undermine the local economy through a joint inspection.
The inspection in Ganyesa yielded significant results, including the discovery of illegal internet café operations and the confiscation of gambling machines. An internet café located opposite the Boxer Shopping Complex was found operating 68 illegal gambling computers, resulting in a fine of R2,500 for contravening sections 50, 66A, and 82 of the North West Gambling Act 2 of 2001. Additionally, authorities seized five Chinese Roulette machines from two local shops, with the owners each receiving R2,500 fines for violating the provincial Gambling Act.
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MEC Bitsa Lenkopane characterized these initiatives as a “service delivery blitz,” focusing not only on illegal gambling but also on illegal liquor trading, business compliance, and environmental concerns such as illegal dumping. This approach aims to build a province that works for all by ensuring that only licensed, law-abiding businesses are allowed to operate.
This highlights the importance of inter-agency cooperation in effectively addressing gambling-related issues and maintaining community safety. The North West Gambling Board remains dedicated to protecting communities, supporting lawful businesses, and maintaining a fair and strictly regulated gambling environment, ensuring that the provincial economy is not drained by untaxed, illegal operations.
The Board has sent a clear message to the public that “illegal gambling will not be tolerated.” As the NWGB continues its inspections across the Kagisano Molopo and Naledi Local Municipalities, it remains committed to maintaining a regulated and responsible gambling industry throughout the North West Province.
