Singapore Police Now Responsible for Stopping Illegal Online Gambling
As of January 1, the Singapore Police Force has assumed responsibility for blocking illegal online gambling websites. This shift was announced by the Gambling Regulatory Authority (GRA) through a public statement on social media. The GRA expressed its gratitude to citizens and stakeholders for their efforts in minimizing the harm caused by illicit gambling activities over the years.
LISTEN TO THIS ARTICLE:The announcement, made on the GRA’s Facebook page, detailed the extensive measures undertaken since 2015 to combat illegal online gambling in Singapore. Over 3,800 illegal gambling websites have been blocked during this period, and more than 145,000 payment transactions, totaling approximately SG$37 million (US$27.1 million), were intercepted. These efforts were aimed at dismantling the infrastructure supporting unlicensed gambling operators and safeguarding citizens from its associated risks.
Related: Updated Gambling Laws Take Effect in SingaporeThe GRA has encouraged both residents and visitors to actively report any unlawful gambling activities directly to the Singapore Police Force. This can be done through the police's whistleblower website, ensuring a streamlined process for addressing concerns and complaints related to illegal gambling operations.
The transition of responsibilities comes amid a broader push by Singapore to enhance its regulatory frameworks related to gambling and financial oversight. Late last year, amendments to the Casino Control Act granted the GRA expanded authority to regulate the gaming industry. Earlier in the year, stricter due diligence requirements on casino deposits were also introduced to bolster accountability and transparency within the sector.
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AML/CTF Regs Under Review
In addition to these measures, Singapore has strengthened its anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing (AML/CTF) frameworks. These updates follow a high-profile multi-billion-dollar money laundering case that allegedly involved gaming activities across Southeast Asia. The government has been proactive in implementing policies to mitigate financial crimes and ensure compliance with international standards.
Under Singaporean law, the provision of unlicensed gambling services—whether within the country or targeting its residents from abroad—is strictly prohibited. Singapore Pools remains the sole licensed operator authorized to provide legal online gambling services. However, despite stringent laws, illegal online gambling persists as a significant challenge, with many individuals continuing to engage in unauthorized activities through unlicensed platforms.
Data from the GRA underscores the extent of its enforcement efforts. As of September 2023, the authority had blocked access to over 1,900 remote gambling websites and more than 260 associated bank accounts. Additionally, collaboration with financial institutions resulted in the blocking of nearly 115,000 credit card transactions linked to illegal gambling activities between January 2017 and September 2023.
Since its establishment in August 2022, the GRA has received approximately 70 reports concerning unlawful remote gambling services. These reports have played a critical role in informing enforcement actions and shaping regulatory policies. The authority has worked closely with various stakeholders to disrupt illegal gambling networks and maintain the integrity of Singapore's regulated gaming industry.
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