43 men nabbed for illegal horse betting activities, $18k cash seized

Police arrested 43 men, aged between 49 and 81, for their suspected involvement in illegal horse betting activities during an enforcement operation between Sep 12 and Sep 19.

The enforcement operation was conducted by Central Police Division along Smith Street, Geylang Bahru, Jalan Kukoh, Bendemeer, Telok Blangah Crescent and King George’s Avenue.

Cash of around $18,000 was seized during the operation, said the police in a statement on Monday (Sep 21).

Police investigations are ongoing.

Under Section 5(1) of the Betting Act, any person who bets with a bookmaker shall be liable on conviction to a fine of up to $5,000 and/or a jail term of up to six months.

Under Section 5(3) of the Betting Act, any person who acts as a bookmaker in any place shall be liable on conviction to a fine between $20,000 and $200,000, and shall also be punished with a jail term of up to five years.

"The police will continue to clamp down on criminal activities. Those found engaging in illicit activities will be dealt with sternly in accordance with the law," the statement added.