The Provincial Head of PES (Police Emergency Services) in Limpopo Brigadier Isaac Mantjane had on Friday, 12 April 2024, represented the Provincial Commissioner of Limpopo SAPS Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe during MEC of LEDET Rodgers Monama ‘s media breakfast session with gambling operators and disposal of gambling machines, held at Uhuru Lifestyle Emporium and Bosveld scrap metal in Polokwane.
In attendance, it was members of various media houses, Gambling operators, National and local gambling board, SAPS members from different relevant offices.
These stakeholders gathered together with an objective of sharing ideas based on the persistence issue of illegal gambling operators within our communities and to as well share the successes achieved by closing some of these illegal operators.
Brigadier Isaac Mantjane, gave some remarks on the crime prevention. He acknowledge all the stakeholders presence, and their well maintained relationship they have with them and their efforts of working hard. “Already there are strategies that they have put in place to address these illegal gambling. We also appreciate the applauds they were directed to the SAPS. Today, we are here to witness the destruction of the illegal gambling machines,” said Brigadier Mantjane.
MEC of Limpopo Economic Development, Environment and Tourism, addressed the attendees about the strategies in hand that were applied to fight against illegal gambling and new ideas that still discussed to be implemented. He also highlighted that, “This is one of the serious crimes that are harming the economy of the province. It is crucial that we act quickly and ensure that the function of these illegal operators is eliminated. He also acknowledged the noticeable impact by the SAPS in fighting against these criminal activities.
Various gambling operators outlined their concerns, challenges and expectations from the government regarding illegal gambling.
Media Houses presence, were afforded a space to pose questions and they were diligently answered.
Over 500 illegal gambling machines were demolished.
The SAPS illegal gambling operations are underway.
