Pakistan Law Enforcement Arrests Over 1,600 For Illegal Gambling

Law enforcement in Pakistan has recently cracked down on illegal gambling dens and individuals involved in both traditional and online gambling.

The most significant action against gamblers in the country took place recently in Lahore, when the local police department raided an illegal horse cart race and associated gambling activity near Babu Sabu.

Police Operation Results in Over 1,600 Arrests

Officials say that the Shahdara police received a tip about large-scale betting during the horse cart race, prompting a rapid operation to apprehend those involved. The action resulted in the arrest of 1,619 suspects and has led to 413 cases being brought against them so far this year.

Local reports said that the raiding team encountered strong resistance from the gamblers, who beat police officers with sticks. One named individual, Tauqeer Bhatti, has had a case opened against him for fighting the police.

However, the raid also resulted in the arrest of Bala Aslam, who authorities believe to be the ring leader of this and other organized gambling in the country. Hundreds have reportedly attended the event to watch a horse race, making this one of the largest gambling crackdowns in the region.

In addition to the arrests, Pakistan’s police also confiscated the horses, as well as 8.41 million rupees ($29,901). 

Police in Pakistan Target Illegal Online Gambling

Capital City Police Officer Bilal Siddique Kamyana asserted that the noose is tightening around those involved in online gambling. He is pushing for punishments against social media account operators who promote online gambling, as well as mobile gambling apps. 

The police are utilizing modern IT techniques to counter these activities. Still, according to Police Officer Kamyana, the effectiveness of the operation will depend on collaboration with the Public Prosecution Department to ensure that cases are processed and prosecuted accordingly. 

He believes that these efforts are necessary to remove the harmful social practice of gambling from society. 

The Prohibition of Gambling in Pakistan

All forms of gambling are illegal in Pakistan. Two main laws prohibit gambling in Pakistan. The first is the Public Gambling Act of 1867, and the subsequent Prevention of Gambling Houses Act of 1977. 

Typical fines against those caught engaging in gambling can go up to 1,000 rupees, a year in prison, or both. But, there is also a larger fine of 5,000 for those who use a typical gaming house, which covers dice, cards, money, counters, and the like. 

Pakistan does make an exception for tourists, however, who are allowed to gamble legally in the country.