Within the districts of Santiago de Cali and Sucre, the Colombian gaming authority, Coljuegos, executed surprise inspections at 11 sites, confiscating 59 illicit gaming devices and seizing funds valued at 1.4 billion Colombian pesos (roughly £261,894 / €305,611).
These surprise inspections were conducted in partnership with the Valle del Cauca government and the National Police.
Individuals discovered engaging in unlawful operations will face penalties of 4 million Colombian pesos (approximately £764.52 / €892.35).
“Coljuegos and local authorities are dedicated to this endeavor,” stated Carlos Andrés Sarate, Coljuegos’ director for illicit operations control.
“Illegal lottery and chance game activities are a blight that directly negatively impacts the well-being of Colombian communities.”
A penalty of 72.6 million Colombian pesos will be imposed for each electronic slot machine discovered.
A penalty of 272.5 million Colombian pesos will be imposed for each illicit gambling establishment, sales point, outlet, or supplier.
Offenders will also be prohibited from participating in gambling activities for a period of five years. Furthermore, offenders will be sentenced to a prison term ranging from six to eight years under Article 312 of the Criminal Code.
Sarate added that a new committee has been established specifically to combat unlawful gambling activities.
In Cali today, a collaborative group of government organizations was established to combat illicit gambling operations. This initiative fulfills a pledge made by Governor Clara Luz Roldán to enhance the legal framework within this region.
Last week, Coljuegos seized 274 items linked to illegal gambling and confiscated 71.1 billion pesos during multiple raids conducted in Bogotá and Montería.
Subscribe to the iGaming newsletter.