The National Gambling Board (NGB) has cautioned the public to avoid the temptation of resorting to illegal gambling operators following the declaration of a national state of disaster, which has curtailed legal gambling activities due to the coronavirus restrictions.
President Cyril Ramaphosa on Sunday said as part of the government’s effort to contain the spread of coronavirus, authorities would prohibit gatherings of more than 100 people.
The NGB in a statement said it is confident that licensed gambling establishments will take the necessary precautionary steps to implement the proactive measures called for by the President, particularly in instances where there will be gatherings of up to 100 persons or more on their premises.
“However, in the event that licensed gambling establishments are temporarily closed for business owing to an escalation of the pandemic, the NGB cautions the public to avoid the temptation to access unlicensed gambling operators, which may still be operational despite the preventive measures in place, whether physically or on online platforms,” said the board.
“The NGB encourages the public to instead exercise patience and wait until the situation improves. The NGB encourages the public to be vigilant against unlawful gambling activities, and to contact the NGB for any further information.”
