War On Illegal Gambling

The Betting Gaming and Lotteries Commission (BGLC) has signed a partnership agreement with Crime Stop to tackle illegal gambling.

The partnership, which will allow members of the public to make anonymous reports through Crime Stop’s ‘311’ toll-free number, will offer persons cash rewards of up to $25,000 if the information provided results in an arrest and charge.

Acting Executive Director at the BGLC, Carole Martinez-Johnson, speaking at the official signing ceremony on September 27, in Kingston, said this is part of the new approach to tackle illegal gambling.

“This is a more inclusive approach to fighting illegal gambling, by enlisting the support of the public, now making the eradication of the problem everybody’s business,” she said.

Mrs. Martinez-Johnson said the Commission expects to see a significant reduction in illegal gambling activities, especially with the added incentive of a reward for anonymous tips.

“The partnership forms part of a broader initiative of a systematic review of the Commission’s enforcement operations, as we aim to ramp up our intelligence gathering and technical capabilities,” she explained.

Chairman of the BGLC, Clovis Metcalfe, said that as a regulator of the local gaming industry, the BGLC has the duty to protect the public from unfair, unscrupulous and illegal activities.

“We are taking this approach to ensure that all gambling activities in Jamaica are carried out in a manner which is safe and fair, and that the industry remains free from crime,” he said.

The Chairman identified illegal Cash Pot, unlicensed gambling premises and unlicensed slot machines as the most prevalent illegal gambling offences in Jamaica.