The Police have arrested six men, aged between 54 and 76, for their suspected involvement in illegal horse betting activities.
The Police have previously mounted several operations at the location. On 19 November 2017, officers from the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) conducted another operation at Block 65 Circuit Road, resulting in the arrest of the six men. During the operation, cash amounting to S$3,500/- and an array of documents including betting records were seized.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the six suspects are believed to be performing various roles including bookmakers, runners as well as punters, and are involved in illegal horse betting activities.
Three of the suspects, aged 58 to 66, will be charged in Court on 22 November 2017 for offences under the Betting Act as well as the Common Gaming Houses Act. Investigations against the remaining suspects are ongoing.
Under the Betting Act, any person who bets with a bookmaker shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $5,000, or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding six months, or both. Any person who is found to be involved in bookmaking shall be liable on conviction to a fine of not less than $20,000 and not more than $200,000, and shall also be punished with imprisonment for a term not exceeding five years.
Police take a serious view against all forms of illegal betting activities, especially those that display a blatant disregard for the social order of Singapore. Police will continue to take tough enforcement action against anyone involved in illegal betting activities, regardless of their roles, to face the full extent of the law. Members of the public are advised to steer clear of all forms of illegal gambling.
SINGAPORE POLICE FORCE
21 November 2017 @ 2:30 PM