In 2023, Perth authorities carried out two major raids on underground gambling operations in suburban areas to seize almost $190,000 in cash, casino-style gaming chips, and playing cards. The organizers and participants of illegal gaming house, raided upon suspicion of operating without a gaming license, have been facing charges from Western Australia authorities to convey a zero tolerance message to illegal operators in the province.
April Raid Busting $128,615:
In April 2023, the Gaming and Wagering Commission (GWC) authorized the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries (DLSCG) to execute a search warrant on a business premises in a Perth suburb. According to WA.gov.au, the DLSCG investigators and the WA Police conducted the bust to seize $128,615 in cash, gaming chips, playing cards, and other items. Three of four organizers were reportedly identified as Crown Perth employees and their casino employee licenses were cancelled by GWC, according to WA.gov.au.
The same source reports that they have been facing possible charges under the Gaming and Wagering Commission Act 1987. As yahoo!news reports, the DLSCG said that the illegal gaming organizers”targeted vulnerable problem gamblers banned from casinos and cash-hungry Crown dealers” to reportedly lose their Crown jobs after the raid. Several other participants reportedly received infringement notices on underground gambling allegations. In addition, WA Police pressed charges against the fourth alleged organizer on money and property laundering claims. As reported by the source, the case is currently processed by the Courts.
December Raid Seized $60,720:
In December 2023, the DLGSC, GWC and WA Police joined forces again to execute another search warrant. As reported, Police officers raided a home in a Perth‘s suburb to find 16 people in the allegedly illegal gambling operations. The underground gaming bust reportedly resulted in the seizure of $60,720 in cash, as well as gaming chips, and documents. WA.gov.au reports that the matter is currently investigated. Minister for Racing and Gaming Paul Papalia reportedly said that the actions taken by authorities in these two cases send a strong warning to those facilitating or attending an illegal gaming houses.
Strong Warning to Illegal Operators:
As WA.gov.au reports, Paul Papalia commented: “The highly successful joint operations between the DLGSC, GWC and WA Police have resulted in two unlawful gambling operations being shut down, and several people who were employed in the casino industry losing their licenses and consequently their jobs. Organizers and participants of unlicensed gaming events are now on notice that their activities will be investigated, and action taken. Gaming and wagering authorities and WA Police are currently looking at ways to forge closer links to increase cooperation and intelligence sharing, with the aim of closing down these illegal gaming operations in the future, and bringing those involved to justice.”