Revamps Operation Against Illegal Gamblers in Colombia

As part of the control action, the regulator confiscated 159 items of gambling equipment, including 100 bingo chairs, 55 electronic slot machines, and four sports betting modules.

Coljuegos, in conjunction with the Colombian National Police, seized items from businesses and will punish offenders with fines of up to COP4.8m (about $1,000, €1,150, or £1,200).

In Colombia, the government regulates the gambling industry, and private enterprises can only open for business after obtaining specific permission. Profits are must be reinvested in social programs in accordance with Colombian law.

The confiscated computers, according to Coljuegos, are worth COP2.65, billion, which will not go towards these worthy objectives.

In October 2016, Colombia passed the egaming act, which decriminalised certain types of internet gambling. After the COVID-19 pandemic caused damage to the industry in 2020, it expanded in 2021 by adding online bingo, instant gaming, and digital scratch cards.