The Police are investigating nine men and one woman, aged between 58 and 79, for their suspected involvement in illegal horse betting activities and for alleged non-compliance of safe distancing measures (SDM).
On 29 August 2021, officers from Woodlands Police Division conducted enforcement operations along Yishun Avenue 5. A 72-year-old man is being investigated for his suspected involvement as bookmaker while eight men and a woman, aged between 58 and 79, are being investigated for allegedly betting with bookmakers. In addition, the woman is also being investigated for an offence under the Remote Gambling Act. Cash amounting to more than $1,700, two mobile phones and betting paraphernalia were seized. Investigations 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.
Under the Remote Gambling Act, any person involved in unlawful remote gambling shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $5,000, or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding six months, or to both.
Members of the public are advised to take prevailing safe distancing measure seriously. For non-compliance with safe distancing measures under the COVID-19 (Temporary Measures) (Control Order) Regulations 2020, offenders may be jailed for up to six months, fined up to S$10,000, or both.
The Police take serious view against all forms of illegal betting activities. The Police will continue to take tough enforcement action and prosecute those involved in accordance with the law. Members of the public are advised to steer clear of all forms of illegal gambling activities and to take prevailing SDM seriously.
Case exhibits seized during the operation
SINGAPORE POLICE FORCE
31 August 2021 @ 12:50 PM