GBT seizes, destroys 300 illicit slot machines

THE Gaming Board of Tanzania (GBT) has destroyed 300 slot machines which were being operated in different areas in the country to deny the state approximately 400m/- annually.

The 300m/- machines were seized in Coast, Lindi, Kilimanjaro, Dar es Salaam, Morogoro, Manyara and Songwe regions, thanks to a special operation executed in July and August.

Speaking during the destruction of the machines at electronics and electrical waste management site in Kisarawe, Coast Region, GBT Director General James Mbalwe said the equipment seized for many reasons including, but not limited to; doing business without a licence, being smuggled into the country without cancelling legal procedures.

Other reasons, according to GBT czar were; doing business in areas that are not allowed or have not been inspected and verified by GBT as well as tax evasion.

He said a total of eight pseudo operators have been nabbed, thanks to cooperation from the Police Force and Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) officers.

“Generally, these machines cost 33m/- month or approximately 400m/- per year.

In addition to avoiding taxes and various fees, illegal operators have also been allowing children to participate illegally.

“The total of 8 people were arrested and brought before the law where their cases are still under investigation. GBT has also been conducting special operations.

“From time to time to ensure that gaming in the country is conducted by the law and brings productivity in the development of our nation without causing any negative effects or harm to our society,” he said.

He ended by calling the Tanzanians who see  or notice  any other type of gaming installed and operated in prohibited places such as beside schools, food stores or in people’s residences to report in advance.

For his part, the Assistant Director of Trade Company Venither Gideon said the government continues to conduct regular inspections of compliance with the law for gambling operators throughout the country.

“This audit also aims to ensure that gaming operators pay gaming tax to the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) as required by law.

“Our institution continues to cooperate with GBT to be able to maintain security in the areas where they play these games of gambling and lottery against the law.

Also, the government will continue to conduct the investigations by inspecting the places where gaming is conducted before issuing a licence for the quality of those places.” said Gideon.