A multi-agency team led by Igembe North Deputy County Commissioner, Martin Muhia, has launched a crackdown on illegal gambling in Laare Town, confiscating and destroying at leats eight gambling machines in an ongoing operation targeting unlicensed betting activities.
The operation, conducted in collaboration with chiefs and officers from the National Government Administration Police Unit (NGAPU), focused on premises suspected of running illegal gambling businesses.
The DCC promised that the person responsible for the confiscated gambling machines will be taken to court and punished according to the law.
Authorities cited growing concern over the negative social impact of the illicit trade, particularly on school going children who have increasingly been drawn into gambling activities.
Officials noted that the vice has contributed to rising cases of addiction, family disputes, and, in some instances, physical altercations.
“There have been numerous complaints from residents, especially regarding school children and frequent family wrangles linked to gambling and the culprit of the vice are going to be dealt with according to law,” said DCC.
The team also raised alarm over the misuse of licensed alcohol outlets. While over 50 premises in the area have been approved to sell alcoholic beverages, some operators have allegedly taken advantage of the licenses to introduce illegal gambling services within their establishments.
Officials emphasized that no premise in the sub county has been licensed to operate gambling activities, terming all such operations illegal.
The crackdown is set to continue, with authorities warning that any gambling machines found will be confiscated and destroyed as part of efforts to completely eradicate the vice from the area.
Residents have been urged to report any suspected illegal gambling activities as the government intensifies its efforts to restore social order and protect vulnerable groups.
By Kamanja Maeria
