The Police are investigating eight men, aged between 52 and 90, for their suspected involvement in illegal horse betting activities and alleged non-compliance of safe distancing measures (SDM).
From 6 to 10 October 2021, officers from Bedok Police Division conducted enforcement operations in the vicinity of Blocks 24 and 26 New Upper Changi Road. Two men, aged 70 and 73, were arrested for their suspected involvement as bookmakers, while six other men, aged between 52 and 90, are being investigated for allegedly betting with bookmakers. Cash amounting to more than $3,500 and betting paraphernalia were seized. The men will also be investigated for alleged non-compliance with SDM, by gathering in groups exceeding the permitted group size under prevailing COVID-19 Regulations. Police investigations are ongoing.
Under the Betting Act, any person who is found to be involved in bookmaking shall be liable on conviction to a fine of not less than $20,000 and not more than $200,000, and shall also be punished with imprisonment for a term not exceeding five years. Any person who bets with a bookmaker in any place, or for the purpose of betting loiters in any place to which the public has access, shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding $5,000, imprisonment for a term not exceeding six months, or both.
Members of the public are advised to take the prevailing SDM seriously. For non-compliance with safe distancing measures under the COVID-19 (Temporary Measures) (Control Order) Regulations 2020, offenders may be jailed for up to six months, fined up to $10,000, or both.
The Police take a serious view of all forms of illegal betting activities and will continue to take tough enforcement action against those involved, in accordance with the law. Members of the public are advised to steer clear of all forms of illegal gambling activities.
SINGAPORE POLICE FORCE
12 October 2021 @ 5:30 PM