In a significant move to combat illegal gambling activities, a substantial number of illicit slot machines were recently confiscated and subsequently destroyed in the courtyard of the prefecture in the Bouaflé department. The operation, spearheaded by the Gaming Regulatory Authority (ARJH), marks the beginning of a nationwide crackdown on unlawful gaming operations.
The joint effort received resounding support from various administrative authorities, the entire prefectural body, and the National Lottery of Côte d’Ivoire. Check Oumar Diarra, the Director of Marketing and Customer Experience at the National Lottery, was present to endorse the initiative.
Presiding over the ceremony, George Gonbagui Gueu, the prefect of the Marahoué region and the department of Bouaflé, commended the police and the prefectural body for their unwavering commitment and determination to eradicate this detrimental issue from the Marahoué region.
Jules Dally, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Regulatory Authority, emphasized that the objective of destroying these illegal slot machines is to purge the gaming sector of unauthorized and unscrupulous operators who exploit non-compliant and illicit machines. Such operators not only subject the population to scams but also pose a particular risk of gambling addiction among minors.
It is crucial to note that the operation of slot machines on physical premises is a regulated activity that necessitates prior authorization from the Regulatory Authority under specific conditions. Failure to comply with this legal requirement exposes individuals to administrative and criminal penalties.
The ARJH, established by Law No. 2020-480 on May 27, 2020, to establish the legal framework for games of chance in Côte d’Ivoire, undertakes several essential responsibilities. These include ensuring compliance with laws and regulations, obligations arising from authorizations or existing agreements in the gaming sector, raising awareness about responsible gaming among operators and users, preventing excessive gambling and safeguarding minors, combating fraud, money laundering, and terrorist financing, as well as resolving disputes.
The recent incineration of illicit slot machines in Bouaflé serves as a strong deterrent to clandestine operators and sends a clear message that the authorities are resolute in their efforts to maintain integrity and protect the public against illicit gambling activities. This decisive action marks a significant step forward in the ongoing fight against the proliferation of unauthorized gaming operations throughout the country.
