Singapore police arrested six people during coordinated raids that uncovered an illegal horse racing and betting operation active across several residential areas. The enforcement exercise, carried out on 15 January, involved simultaneous action in Boon Lay Way, Tengah Avenue, Pandan Gardens, Bukit Batok West Avenue 8, and Jurong West Streets 91 and 93.
According to The Independent Singapore, the suspects are five men and one woman aged between 32 and 65. They were arrested following a joint operation conducted by officers from the Criminal Investigation Department, the Police Intelligence Department, and the Special Operations Command.
Police said more than S$70,000 in cash was seized during the raids, alongside computers, mobile phones, electronic storage devices, and gambling paraphernalia. Preliminary investigations indicate that the group was operating an unlicensed horse racing and betting network that relied on private communications and digital tools to evade detection.
Despite Singapore’s strict gambling regulations, underground betting operations continue to surface in neighbourhood settings. Authorities have warned that such illegal networks can cause financial harm to individuals and fuel broader criminal activity.
Under the Gambling Control Act 2022, those found guilty of illegal gambling activities face substantial penalties. Operators may be fined up to S$500,000 and jailed for up to seven years, while agents can face fines of up to S$200,000. Individuals who place bets with illicit bookmakers are also liable for prosecution.
The Singapore Police Force said firm enforcement will continue and urged the public to avoid unlicensed betting activities and report suspicious behaviour to authorities.
Those who place bets with illegal operators risk fines of up to S$10,000 or imprisonment for up to six months
