Unlicensed gambling den raids in Doncaster

Operation Snaresbrook saw the Gambling Commission, Immigration, South Yorkshire Police, as well as City of Doncaster Council’s trading standards and licensing teams all working together to crack down on illegal gambling dens.

As a result of this partnership action, two unlicensed venues were raided and eight people were arrested in total, one for offences under the Gambling Act of 2005 and the other seven for immigration offences. During searches of the businesses in question, officers managed to seize just under £9,000 worth of cash and found incriminating evidence in the form of poker tables, slot machines, and account books.

Councillor Gemma Cobby, Cabinet Member for Regulation and Enforcement, Planning and Safer Communities at City of Doncaster Council, said:

“Illicit gambling dens are often linked to organised crime gangs and can be used to launder money. Their fraudulent practices also undermine trust in legitimate businesses that are licensed and regulated. Illegal gambling has no place in our city. Members of the public can help by making us aware of any concerns they may have about the practices of local businesses. We investigate all reports that come through to us so please don’t hesitate to get in touch.”   

Doncaster Central Neighbourhood Policing Team Inspector Lisa Bird added:

“Illegal gambling is a crime and it is vital that all businesses follow the laws put in place.

“Illegal gambling is often linked to other criminality, including organised crime, money laundering and human trafficking, all of which threatens the safety and security of our city centre. We will continue to gather intelligence on those suspected of having links to illegal gambling and will work closely with partners to tackle the issue and target those involved in this criminality.”

Immigration Enforcement Assistant Director for Yorkshire, Tim Gallacher, said:

“This was a successful operation for Immigration Enforcement, with officers showing the utmost professionalism throughout. It shows the close relationship we have with law enforcement and other partners to crack down on this illegal activity. Immigration offenders who are gambling every day by being here illegally can be in no doubt that they will be tracked down and removed at the earliest opportunity.”

Sue Young, Gambling Commission Executive Director of Operations, said:

“We are constantly looking for opportunities to work with police and other agencies to crack down on all forms of illegal gambling.”

If a member of the public suspects that a business is involved in any form of illegal activity, they can anonymously report them to Trading Standards via the Citizens Advice online portal or by calling 080 8223 1133.

Under their Safer City initiative, City of Doncaster Council and South Yorkshire Police have joined forces to crack down on crime and antisocial behaviour, to provide a reassuring presence, and to invest in new resources that help people stay safe while enjoying everything that our city has to offer. You can find out more about the scheme by heading to www.yourlifedoncaster.co.uk/safer-city