South Africa’s Online Gamblers Forfeit R1 Million Winnings to State

Illegal gamblers have forfeited over R1-million of their winnings to the State, says Trade and Industry Minister Rob Davies.

Unprecedented court proceedings led to the gamblers’ unlawful winnings of about R1.25 million being confiscated and forfeited to the State.

Trade and Industry Minister Dr Rob Davies said online gambling is illegal in the country and that should South African citizens participate in online gambling and win, their winnings are the proceeds of an illegal activity and will therefore be confiscated and forfeited to the State.

Minister Davies has also expressed concern that online gambling could be used to launder money… and therefore banks continue to collaborate with the National Gambling Board to confiscate the unlawful winnings.

On top of having their winnings confiscated, punters – who partake in illegal gambling – are also liable for criminal prosecution.

According to the National Gambling Board (NGB)’s Accounting Authority, Caroline Kongwa, citizens caught gambling illegally or running an illegal gambling establishment (like internet cafes that provide illegal online gambling) will be targeted and they will face criminal charges or a fine to the maximum of R10 million or both.

She emphasises that the NGB’s role and mandate is to protect the public. She also appealed to the public to report illegal gambling activities.

The NGB can be contacted on 010 003 3475 and for any further information at www.ngb.org.za. Information relating to any suspected illegal gambling activity in South Africa can be provided to the NGB at fraudalert@ngb.org.za.

Source:  SAnews.gov.za