South Africa Cracks Down on Illegal Gambling as Millions in Unlawful Winnings Are Seized
South Africa’s gambling regulator is intensifying its fight against illegal gambling and has warned the public that participation in unlicensed betting platforms could result in the complete loss of winnings.
The National Gambling Board (NGB) confirmed in a statement issued on 27 May, 2026 that more than R3 million linked to unlawful gambling activities has been forfeited to the State following investigations and High Court orders issued under the National Gambling Act, 2004.
The enforcement action was carried out in terms of Section 16 of the National Gambling Act, 2004 (Act 7 of 2004) (“NGA”), which empowers the NGB to investigate unlawful gambling activities, including illegal online gambling, and seek High Court orders declaring unlawful winnings forfeited to the State.
According to the regulator, approximately R3 075 000.00 was forfeited between 01 April 2025 and 10 April 2026. The total amount includes:
- Approximately R775 000.00 forfeited during the 2025/26 financial year, covering the period from 01 April 2025 to 31 March 2026; and
- Approximately R2 300 000.00 forfeited as at 10 April 2026 during the 2026/27 financial year, which commenced on 01 April 2026.
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The NGB said the funds were identified as proceeds derived from unlawful gambling activities conducted in contravention of the NGA. “The forfeiture of proceeds derived from unlawful gambling activities demonstrates the NGB’s continued commitment to enforcing the NGA and supporting lawful and accountable gambling practices in South Africa. These enforcement measures serve to protect the public and reinforce the consequences associated with unlawful gambling activities,” said the Acting CEO of the NGB, Lungile Dukwana.
Illegal online gambling continues to be a growing concern across African markets as regulators increase scrutiny on unlicensed operators that fall outside local regulatory oversight frameworks.
The NGB warned that South Africans who gamble on unlicensed platforms risk losing all winnings obtained through such activities, with no legal protection or recourse available should disputes arise.
The regulator has urged consumers to verify whether gambling operators are legally licensed before placing bets or participating in online gambling activities. The NGB also encouraged members of the public to report suspicious or illegal gambling activities to the regulator or relevant Provincial Licensing Authorities.
