Police bust illegal gambling den

SINGAPORE: Police have busted an illegal gambling den operating under the guise of an industrial unit.

Five men and two women aged between 30 and 60 were arrested for offences under the Common Gaming House Act.

Bedok Police Division had acted on information received about illegal gambling activities allegedly taking place in the Geylang East Industrial Estate.

During the six—hour operation which started on July 3 at about 1pm, the officers raided the unit and arrested seven persons for offences under the Common Gaming House Act.

Preliminary investigations revealed that one of the suspects, aged 30, is believed to be involved in operating the illegal gambling den while the remaining suspects are suspected patrons.

Twenty—four modified computers and cash amounting to about S$2,132 were also seized.

The 30—year—old suspect and three other suspects will be charged in Court on July 5.

Investigations against the remaining suspects are on—going.

Police said any person found guilty of assisting to manage a place used as a common gaming house {under Section 4(1) (c) of the Common Gaming Houses Act} may be fined between S$5,000 and S$50,000 and jailed up to three years.

As for the patrons, any person found guilty of illegal gaming in a common gaming house (under Section 7 of the Common Gaming Houses Act) may be fined up to S$5,000 or jailed up to six months.

Commander of Bedok Police Division, Deputy Assistant Commissioner of Police How Kwang Hwee, said: "Those who willingly allow their business premises or residential units to be used for such unlawful activities can expect the Police to come down hard on them. Owners have a responsibility to ensure that their premises are not used for illegal activities."

— CNA/cc