Limpopo Economic Development, Environment and Tourism (LEDET) on Friday, 20 November disposed of all illegal gambling machines, with the assistance of the Limpopo Gambling Board (LGB) and the police.
The machines collected from all over the province were destroyed at a local scrap metal business in Ladine.
Brig Mosima Maila, on behalf of Police Commissioner, Nneke Ledwaba, said the police are appreciative of the work done by Ledet and the board, as it reduces the number of people making money illegally. “The police will always be available to assist in any operations by the board and Ledet.”
He said the role played by the board is an important one which is highlighted in their monthly meetings that are aimed at determining the hotspots that need to be eradicated. The Chairperson of the Board, Elijah Tleane, said dealing with the impact of illegal gambling is not only about lost revenue, but the effect on society and its finances. He says the illegal money made from this is often used to fund other illegal activities as this money cannot be traced.
“The impact is always bigger than simply losing revenue. This money is used to fund terrorist groups, human trafficking and drug syndicates in our communities.”
In his keynote address Ledet MEC, Thabo Mokone, expressed his gratitude to the board and the police for being part of this annual occasion that aims to keep the community clean. Mokone said 236 000 jobs were lost in Limpopo during the higher lockdown levels, leaving the unemployed in a tough spot where they will try by all means to make money. “The use of these machines furthermore contributes to breaking up families due to the desperation gamblers to make more money.”
He says his department has now been tasked with job creation through the economic recovery plan by the President, Cyril Ramaphosa.
The machines were off-loaded and broken down in the presence of the media and the various stakeholders.
Story: Umpha Manenzhe
