The Limpopo Gambling Board on 17th April 2026 officiated a session to destroy over 200 illegal gambling machines confiscated between July 2025 and June 2026 across all five Limpopo districts.

The event was led by Honourable Mr. Tshitereke Matibe at E-waste Limpopo, 53 Asbes Street, Laboria, Polokwane. It was conducted in accordance with the Limpopo Gambling Act (Act 3 of 2013), which strictly regulates gambling in the province. The Act requires that all gambling activities be properly licensed and authorized. It defines illegal gambling as any operation conducted without a valid license, including the use or installation of unapproved gambling machines in public or private spaces, as well as allowing premises to be used for such activities.

The Act also emphasizes the protection of minors by prohibiting anyone under the age of 18 from participating in gambling and holding operators accountable for preventing access. To enforce compliance, authorities are empowered to inspect premises, seize illegal equipment, and shut down unlawful operations. Offenders may face significant penalties, including fines, imprisonment, and the confiscation or destruction of gambling machines, reflecting the Act’s commitment to safeguarding communities and curbing unregulated gambling.

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The operation was carried out by the Limpopo Gambling Board (LGB) in collaboration with the South African Police Service (SAPS). This is part of its increased efforts to combat illegal gambling and protect children from early exposure to gambling activities, especially in community areas where these machines are frequently installed unlawfully.

“This action demonstrates our resolve to ensure that illegal gambling operations have no place in Limpopo. We will continue working closely with law enforcement and regulatory bodies to uphold the law and safeguard our communities,” said MEC Tshitereke Matibe.