The Colombian gaming oversight agency, Coljuegos, conducted surprise inspections at seven unauthorized gambling establishments, confiscating 139 gaming devices and apprehending two individuals suspected of running the operations.
These raids occurred in the town of Manaure in Cesar province and the city of Riohacha in La Guajira province.
With the assistance of the Colombian National Police, the regulator carried out the raids and subsequent actions this week. These actions will result in penalties of 2.22 billion pesos ($401,762 / €474,442 / $556,668) for those responsible for the illicit operations.
A penalty of 80 minimum monthly wages, equivalent to 72.7 million pesos, will be levied for each unauthorized slot machine discovered. Furthermore, any other gambling games being operated will incur a separate fine of 300 minimum monthly salaries for each venue, sales point, outlet, or supplier.
In addition to the financial penalties, those involved will be prohibited from any gambling activities for a period of five years and could face a prison sentence ranging from six to eight years. Any seized gambling machines or equipment will be destroyed.
The Colombian gaming authority, Coljuegos, has taken steps to combat unlawful gambling activities. This move is part of a broader strategy to fight illicit gambling and ensure the gaming sector continues to support Colombia’s healthcare system. They urge individuals to engage in gambling only at authorized venues or through licensed online operators.
In the previous year, authorities, including the Attorney General’s Office, the military, and the Financial and Customs Police, seized 871 unauthorized slot machines. These machines were generating an estimated 27.7 billion pesos in illicit funds.
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