Two people have been arrested after authorities raided a suspected illegal gambling premises in Manchester city centre as part of an ongoing investigation into unlicensed gambling activity.
The operation took place on 28 May at a property on Chester Road and involved officers from Greater Manchester Police (GMP), enforcement officials from the Gambling Commission and representatives from Manchester City Council’s Licensing Team.
According to investigators, the premises were being examined following reports of illegal gambling and potential licensing breaches. During the raid, officers discovered gambling tables, chips, account books, records, alcohol and other materials believed to be linked to the operation of the venue.
Authorities also seized cash and mobile phones as part of the investigation.
A 33-year-old man and a 66-year-old woman were arrested on suspicion of offences under the Gambling Act 2005 and the Licensing Act 2003. Both remained in custody for questioning following the operation.
GMP confirmed that specialist officers from its Financial Crime Unit and Money Laundering teams are supporting enquiries, reflecting concerns that illegal gambling operations can be associated with wider criminal activity.
PC Nial Vivian of Greater Manchester Police said enforcement action had been taken to ensure businesses complied with the law, adding that illegal gambling can create risks ranging from financial disputes to money laundering concerns.
The Gambling Commission also highlighted the importance of collaborative enforcement efforts, with Sue Young, the regulator’s Executive Director of Operations, noting: "Tackling all forms of illegal gambling is a focus for the Commission, so we were keen to work in partnership with Greater Manchester Police and Manchester City Council on this operation."
The raid comes amid a broader push by the Gambling Commission to address the illegal market. Earlier this year, Commission Director of Policy Ian Angus confirmed that the regulator had been awarded £26m over three years to combat illegal gambling, and announced plans to publish data on illegal market trends – including the development of Britain's first-ever national risk assessment for the illegal market.
The Gambling Commission recently announced plans to strengthen its focus on illegal gambling, including developing Britain’s first national risk assessment of the black market
