- Raids on underground gambling operations result in action against those involved
- Close to $190,000 in cash, casino-style gaming chips and playing cards seized
- Cook Government issues strong warning to participants and organisers of illegal gaming houses
The warning comes following two raids by authorities on gaming houses suspected of operating without a licence or permit.
In April, Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries (DLGSC) investigators, acting under the authority of the Gaming and Wagering Commission (GWC), executed a search warrant alongside WA Police on a business premises in a Perth inner suburb.
As a result of that bust, three Crown Perth employees had their casino employee licences cancelled by the GWC, and infringement notices were issued to several people who were allegedly playing and/or wagering in an unlawful game.
One of four alleged organisers/facilitators, a 35-year-old man, has been charged with a money and property laundering offence by WA Police, with that matter currently before the Courts.
Cash totalling $128,615, a baccarat table cover, casino-style gaming chips, playing cards, and other items were seized during the raid. There are possible charges pending under the Gaming and Wagering Commission Act 1987.
A second search warrant was carried out in December when DLGSC, GWC and WA Police officers raided a home in Perth's eastern suburbs where 16 people were present. Cash amounting to $60,720, gaming chips, and documents were seized, and investigations are continuing.
Minister for Racing and Gaming Paul Papalia said the actions taken by authorities in these cases send a strong warning to those involved in, or considering attending, an illegal gaming house.
Further information on racing, gaming and wagering laws in Western Australia is available on the DLGSC website: dlgsc.wa.gov.au/racing-gaming-and-liquor/racing-gaming-and-wagering.
As stated by Police, and Racing and Gaming Minister Paul Papalia:
"The highly successful joint operations between the DLGSC, GWC and WA Police have resulted in two unlawful gambling operations being shut down, and several people who were employed in the casino industry losing their licences and consequently their jobs.
"Organisers and participants of unlicensed gaming events are now on notice that their activities will be investigated, and action taken.
"Gaming and wagering authorities and WA Police are currently looking at ways to forge closer links to increase cooperation and intelligence sharing, with the aim of closing down these illegal gaming operations in the future, and bringing those involved to justice."
