The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has raised the alarm over a growing surge in illegal betting activities across the country.
In a statement on Tuesday, April 29, the DCI said the situation is made worse by rampant advertising and seamless transactions between betting operators and users.
"In recent months, we have witnessed with deep concern a worrying surge in betting activities, exacerbated by an overwhelming wave of advertising that has saturated our media landscape, affecting our society’s vulnerable population, especially the youth. The accessibility of mobile payment platforms and online lending has aggravated this issue by allowing seamless transactions between betting operators and users.
"These persistent advertisements often entrap individuals with limited financial resources, leading them to ‘invest’ in these schemes, and result in others dedicating excessive amounts of time and money, ultimately compromising their capacity to engage in meaningful and productive endeavours. We must confront this issue head-on to safeguard our beloved country and protect the future of our youth," the statement read.
As such, the DCI said measures are underway to strengthen the oversight role of the Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB).
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It warned that action will be taken against operators who disregard the regulations and those involved in illegal betting syndicates.
"The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) reiterates its commitment to fostering a responsible gaming environment that protects our citizens from exploitation. To this end, we are taking decisive measures to support the Betting Control and Licensing Board in strengthening its oversight role and ensuring that all gaming operators comply with stringent gaming regulations.
"We will take stern action against operators who violate these regulations, including those involved in illegal betting syndicates or those operating unauthorised online and physical platforms to evade regulatory scrutiny," the statement added.
The DCI also appealed to gaming companies to prioritize consumer protection, conduct public awareness and discourage reckless betting.
“Furthermore, we strongly urge gaming companies to adopt responsible practices that promote ethical gaming rather than fostering a culture of reckless betting. The Association of Gaming Operators – Kenya (AGOK) is encouraged to intensify its initiatives aimed at consumer protection by championing awareness campaigns that educate the public about the risks associated with irresponsible gambling," the statement further read.
This comes in the wake of the suspension of all gambling advertisements in the country for 30 days by BCLB.
In a statement on Tuesday morning, BCLB explained that the move follows growing concern by the government over the rising proliferation of gambling activities.
“Some gambling promoters are increasingly mischaracterizing gambling as a legitimate investment opportunity and a shortcut to wealth creation. The erroneous depiction occasions adverse socioeconomic consequences, with devastating effects on individuals, families, and the broader community.
"Of particular concern is the rampant airing of gambling advertisements during the watershed period (5:00 am to 10:00 pm), thereby exposing vulnerable members of the population, particularly minors, who are gradually drawn into gambling-related addiction. The gambling activities include betting, gaming, lottery prize competitions, and all related promotional undertakings," the statement read in part.
