The National Gambling Board (NGB) has sounded the alarm over a surge in illegal online gambling, warning South Africans to avoid unlicensed websites as enforcement efforts are stepped up.
The NGB is partnering with Provincial Licensing Authorities (PLAs) and law enforcement agencies to address the issue of illegal online gambling. This initiative aims to reduce the number of unlicensed gambling websites and platforms that target South African consumers, often violating local gambling laws and consumer protection regulations.
Earlier this year, Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Parks Tau revealed that the NGB had identified at least 90 online gambling websites currently operating illegally in South Africa.
The NGB reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the integrity of the country’s gambling sector. “As the gambling regulation fraternity, we remain unwavering in enforcing the law, online gambling is unlawful and unacceptable,” stated Lungile Dukwana, Acting Chief Executive Officer of the NGB.
Dukwana added that through targeted enforcement, inter-agency cooperation, and public education, the NGB aims to protect South Africans from the harms of illegal gambling, unfair operators, and illicit financial flows. “Our commitment is clear, ensuring that gambling in South Africa remains safe, fair, and licensed,” he said.
The NGB noted that illegal online gambling has rapidly expanded, driven by economic pressures and the easy access to offshore operators and unlicensed platforms, particularly aftter COVID-19.
To combat this, the NGB engages with regulators in other jurisdictions when an offshore operator is identified as operating illegally in South Africa. The NGB and PLAs are working closely with law enforcement agencies, financial institutions, and internet service providers to disrupt illegal gambling platforms.
Their enforcement methods include: monitoring financial transactions to trace illicit flows, collaborating with internet service providers to block access to illegal sites, conducting raids on unlicensed internet cafes and gambling establishments. The NGB is dedicated to ensuring a safe and regulated gambling environment in South Africa.
