BCLB shuts down over 50 betting sites operating illegally in Kenya
The Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) has shut down more than 50 betting sites operating without proper authorisation on a mission to curb illegal betting activities. The crackdown is part of a broader effort to restore integrity in Kenya’s gaming sector and protect vulnerable citizens from financial exploitation and social harm.
Massive crackdown on illegal betting sites
The BCLB announced that at least 58 betting sites have been flagged for operating illegally within Kenya’s internet domain. Their activities were ordered to cease with immediate effect for violating gaming regulations and consumer protection.
In a formal letter to the Communication Authority of Kenya, the BCLB expressed serious concerns about these platforms. “Investigations by the Board reveal that these fraudulent sites scam bettors by accepting deposits via pay bill numbers or STK push services, only to withhold payouts,” the letter states.
The BCLB further instructed mobile service providers to immediately suspend all Pay Bill accounts associated with these illegal betting firms. This move aims to cut off financial channels used by the platforms, making it more challenging for them to operate and exploit users.
Protecting vulnerable populations
The clampdown comes at a time when there is doubt looming over the economic and social impact of gambling, especially on the youth. Betting addiction and financial losses have become a pressing issue, with many young people falling into debt and depression. The government and regulatory authorities are increasingly aware of the need to control the sector to prevent further harm.
Recently, the BCLB suspended all gambling advertisements across media platforms for 30 days, effective immediately. BCLB Chair Jane Mwikali Makau highlighted the dangers of rampant advertising, especially during hours when minors are likely to be watching. “Some gambling promoters are increasingly mischaracterising gambling as a legitimate investment opportunity and a shortcut to wealth creation,” she said. “This has adverse socioeconomic consequences, with devastating effects on individuals, families, and the broader community.”
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) also condemned the surge in gambling advertisements, warning that they encourage reckless behaviour among vulnerable individuals. The DCI pledged to work hand-in-hand with BCLB to enforce regulations and curb illegal gambling activities.
Targeted closure of illegal betting sites
Some of the specific illegal betting sites that have been shut down include Cheza Crash, Skai Crash, Crash Ke, Simple Crash, Aviator VIP, Aviator Pesa, Aviator Ke, LuckyBet Ke, Bingo Crash, MayBet, Nimbo Crash, Mita Sita, Saf Crash, Vuma Bet, and Next Papi, among others. The move was executed just hours after the suspension of gambling advertisements, signalling the government’s serious stance on illegal betting.
According to BCLB Chief Executive Peter Mbugi in a letter to the Communications Authority of Kenya director-general David Mugonyi, “The board has taken note of complaints from concerned citizens regarding these platforms, which exploit users by demanding money through betting schemes. Additionally, the platforms violate the gaming regulations set by the board, necessitating their immediate shutdown.”
The shutdown of these illegal sites has been deemed a necessary step to bring order back to Kenya’s gaming sector, which has experienced rapid growth in recent years. Tax collection from betting companies has increased significantly, with Ksh24.2 billion (USD 187.1 million) collected in the year ending June 2024, up from Ksh19.2 billion (USD 148.5 million) in the previous year. This revenue underscores the importance of regulating the sector effectively.
A sector under scrutiny
The government’s efforts to clamp down on illegal betting sites are part of a broader strategy to bring order to the sector. The illicit sites not only undercut legitimate businesses but have also subjected the public to the possibility of financial loss and addiction.
While the crackdown is ongoing, concerns remain about the potential for some unregulated platforms to re-emerge or operate under different names. Authorities have urged the public to report suspicious sites and to only engage with licensed operators.
