With the Euro 2024 tournament set to take place in Germany from June 14 to July 14, Singapore authorities are intensifying measures to curb illegal and problem gambling. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) emphasized their strict stance on illegal gambling, noting the absence of social safeguards like expenditure limits and responsible gambling measures in such activities.
The ministries reiterated that Singapore Pools remains the sole licensed provider of lotteries and sports betting services in Singapore. All other gambling activities, unless specifically licensed or exempted, are prohibited.
In a joint statement on Wednesday (June 12), the ministries announced stringent enforcement actions against illegal gambling operations, including targeting those assisting gambling syndicates. They highlighted that in 2023, over 300 raids were conducted, leading to the arrest of more than 450 individuals involved in illegal gambling activities. Additionally, they collaborated with stakeholders to terminate phone numbers and close bank accounts linked to illegal gambling promotions.
During the 2021 European Football Championship, Singapore authorities arrested 72 individuals as part of an Interpol-led operation against illegal football gambling. The operation resulted in the seizure of over S$800,000 (US$591,423) in cash and numerous electronic devices.
The ministries also noted that the Gambling Regulatory Authority has blocked more than 3,400 illegal gambling websites and over 260 bank accounts, and has intercepted more than S$36 million (US$27 million) in payments related to illegal remote gambling services.
Public Awareness Campaign During Euro 2024
In conjunction with the tournament, the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) and the National Crime Prevention Council (NCPC) will enhance their public education and outreach efforts. Advertisements warning about the risks of excessive football betting will be displayed across various media platforms, including TV, newspapers, digital, and social media.
Mr. Sim Gim Guan, chairman of NCPG, stressed the importance of personal responsibility and vigilance among family and friends to support those affected by problem gambling.
The NCPC will also launch a campaign featuring TV and social media ads, as well as digital banners, to caution against betting with illegal operators. Campaign materials will be distributed at community events to further spread the message.
Authorities urged the public to avoid placing bets with illegal operators and to gamble responsibly. They emphasized the crucial role of family, friends, and the community in encouraging those with gambling problems to seek help. The National Problem Gambling Helpline at 1800-6-668-668 and the webchat service on the NCPG website are available for those needing support.
Legal Consequences for Illegal Gambling
Conducting unlawful gambling in Singapore can result in fines up to S$500,000 and imprisonment for up to seven years, with harsher penalties for repeat offenders, including fines up to S$700,000 and imprisonment for up to 10 years. Gambling with an unlicensed provider can lead to fines up to S$10,000, imprisonment for up to six months, or both.
Euro 2024 Broadcasts
Mediacorp’s Channel 5 will broadcast four group-stage matches of Euro 2024 for free, with simultaneous streaming on the meWATCH service. The featured matches—Spain vs Croatia, Denmark vs England, Turkiye vs Portugal, and France vs Poland—will kick off at midnight Singapore time.
