The South African National Gambling Board (NGB) has warned the public about illegal gambling following recent court action involving seized winnings.
 

Key Points

Under Section 16 of the National Gambling Act, the NGB can investigate unlawful gambling and apply to the High Court for seizure of winnings
Between 1 April 2025 and 10 April 2026, approximately ZAR 3.1m ($187,500) was forfeited to the state after being deemed proceeds of illegal gambling
 

The South African National Gambling Board (NGB) has issued a warning to the public over illegal gambling activities, highlighting recent court action that has resulted in millions of Rand in unlawful winnings being forfeited to the state.

Section 16 of the National Gambling Act empowers the NGB to investigate the circumstances of unlawful gambling activities. Upon the determination of illegal activity, the NGB applies to the High Court to seize winnings.

Between 1 April 2025 and 10 April 2026, the consolidated amount forfeited during this period amounted to approximately ZAR 3.1m. The High Court ordered that these funds be forfeited to the state.

NGB Acting CEO Lungile Dukwana stated: “This demonstrates the NGB’s continued commitment to enforcing the National Gambling Act and supporting lawful and accountable gambling practices in South Africa. These enforcement measures serve to protect the public and reinforce the consequences of unlawful gambling activities.”

The NGB thus urged the public to exercise caution when participating in gambling activities. The regulator emphasises that individuals who engage with illegal online gambling operators risk losing all winnings obtained through such activities, with no legal protection or recourse available.

In a separate development in the country, specifically in the province of Gauteng, the Gauteng Gambling Board took disciplinary action against senior executives. Earlier this month, CEO Karabo Mbele was removed from her position. 

At the same time, CFO Oscar Maripane was suspended following the findings of a forensic investigation. The investigation identified procurement irregularities, failures in financial governance and alleged non-compliance with the Public Finance Management Act.

Source

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