Tutong - A total of 17 suspects were apprehended on Thursday when an open-area gambling arena in Kg Ukong, Tutong was raided by 42 personnel from the Tutong and Lamunin Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF), the Anti-Narcotics Bureau (BKN) and the Royal Customs and Excise Department.

According to the acting district crime officer, the routine joint operation codenamed "Operasi Sepadu 5 was a result of a public tip-off as the gambling activities were carried outside of the house, in the compound, where it could be clearly seen.

"This is seasonal gambling and the arrested suspects were all on our (watch) list," he informed The Brunei Tinges yesterday.

The arrested suspects, who have since been released on bail, looked to be in the age range of 30 to 40 and they were all participating in the Katam katam gambling game, said the officer.

He added that there was also an illegal sale and consumption of alcohol. A total of 124 cans of Carlsberg, 11 bottles of Tiger and 14 bottles of Guiness Stout were confiscated.

The police is still conducting further investigations in relation to other aspects of the case.

According to an earlier news report, those found guilty of gambling activities in the Sultanate could face a maximum sentence of $10,000 fine and imprisonment of up to six months.

It was also stated that quieter areas in the Sultanate such as Tutong and Kuala Belait are popular areas where illegal gambling activities are usually held.

The acting district crime officer also thanked the public for the tip-off, and encouraged more of such cooperation in the future.-- Courtesy of The Brunei Times

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