126 people investigated for illegal horse betting activities, over $69,000 seized

The police are investigating 120 men and six women, aged between 20 and 87, for their suspected involvement in illegal horse betting activities after a series of island-wide operations.

Officers from the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) and the seven Police Land Divisions had carried out raids at 21 locations across Singapore between Oct 14 and Oct 28.

During the operations, cash of more than $69,000 as well as an array of mobile phones and horse betting paraphernalia were seized as case exhibits.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the 126 individuals are believed to have been involved in various roles such as illegal bookmarkers, runners and punters.

Police investigations are ongoing.

Under the Gambling Control Act 2022, any person who gambles with an unlawful gambling service provider shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $10,000 and/or up to six months in jail.

Under the same Act, anyone who is found to be involved in conducting an unlawful betting operation as an operator shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $500,000 and up to seven years in jail.

Those found to be involved in conducting an unlawful betting operation as an agent shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $200,000 and up to five years in jail.

The police said they do not condone any form of illegal gambling activities and will continue to take tough enforcement action against anyone who is involved in those activities.

"Members of the public are advised to steer clear of all forms of illegal gambling activities," they added.