Welcome to the Weekend Report, where iGB keeps you updated on significant news that might have flown under your radar over the weekend. This week, we delve into various noteworthy developments: Jakarta officials are charged with facilitating illegal online gambling, Kyrgyzstan’s parliament endorses gambling in state-owned facilities, and Ireland establishes a new gambling regulator to fill essential roles.
Jakarta Ministry Officials Charged Over Online Gambling
In a shocking turn of events, 11 officials from Indonesia’s communication and digitalisation ministry are facing charges related to illegal online gambling operations. According to reports from the Jakarta Globe, these officials allegedly enabled gambling websites to remain operational despite direct instructions from the presidential office to shut down all gambling sites and related applications.
Police investigations revealed that approximately 20% of the 5,000 identified gambling websites continued to function due to the alleged collusion with these officials. Each site reportedly paid around RP8.5 million (approximately £447/€533/$580) to enjoy this illicit privilege. Notably, the identities of those involved in the scandal have not been disclosed, but the case has expanded to include the arrests of five private citizens, bringing the total to 16 individuals implicated in this ongoing investigation.
Kyrgyzstan Parliament Approves Gambling in State-Owned Facilities
Shifting focus to Central Asia, Kyrgyzstan’s parliament has recently voted in favor of legislation that permits gambling activities in state-owned facilities. As detailed by the Times of Central Asia, this development stems from a strategy aimed at attracting foreign investment, creating jobs, and increasing tax revenues for the nation. The ministry responsible for economy and commerce believes that revenue generated from these casino operations will support the growth of tourist infrastructure.
It’s important to note that prior to this legislation, gambling was entirely prohibited in Kyrgyzstan. A law passed in 2012 dictated a strict ban, but a more recent amendment allowed gambling for foreign nationals only. Under the new law allowing casinos in state-controlled buildings, Kyrgyz citizens remain barred from participating in these gaming activities, raising questions about the implications for local populations.
Ontario Regulator Penalises Horse Racing Trainer
In North America, the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) has taken disciplinary action against a standardbred trainer and driver for breaching horse racing regulations. The AGCO’s investigation revealed the use of a non-therapeutic performance-enhancing drug, darbepoetin alfa (DPO), on a horse named Funtime Bayama. This breach resulted in 10-year suspensions for both trainer Richard Moreau and driver Sylvain Filion, alongside a hefty monetary penalty of CA$40,000.
Both individuals will not be able to enter horses in races during their suspension period, and any horses trained by them will also be ineligible to race unless transferred to another trainer, subject to AGCO approval. This case highlights the regulation’s zero-tolerance approach to drug use in horse racing, emphasizing the integrity of the sport.
West Virginia Lottery Launches iPLAY with NeoPollard Interactive
Meanwhile, the West Virginia Lottery has announced an exciting partnership with NeoPollard Interactive to launch the innovative iPLAY platform. This new initiative allows players to access a variety of online lottery games, including popular draw games like Powerball, Mega Millions, and Lotto America, as well as instant games from NeoGames Studio.
In addition to providing engaging gaming options, the iPLAY platform also includes features that promote responsible gambling, such as self-exclusion options and deposit limits. Furthermore, the Lottery is rolling out a new PlayON loyalty program, which enables players to earn points through both in-person and online transactions, unlocking exclusive promotions and rewards in the process. John Myers, the director of the West Virginia Lottery, expressed enthusiasm about this progressive step towards enhancing the lottery experience for players.
New Irish Regulator Seeks to Fill Key Roles
Finally, the newly established Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland is on the lookout for qualified individuals to fill key positions within its structure. The Authority aims to appoint its inaugural chairperson and six ordinary members to its board, as reported by the Irish Examiner. Candidates for board membership must possess experience in gambling, consumer affairs, addiction pathology and treatment, or financial services.
For the chair position, relevant management experience in large organizations is highly sought after. Additionally, the Authority is looking for a manager to set up a Social Impact Development Fund, which will impose a levy on the gambling sector to finance projects and initiatives aimed at addressing problem gambling in Ireland. This development marks a significant step in the country’s effort to regulate its gambling industry effectively and responsibly.
As the weekend wraps up, these stories reflect the dynamic landscape of gambling regulation and enforcement worldwide. From legal battles in Indonesia to new regulatory frameworks in Ireland, the global conversation around gambling continues to evolve, underscoring the necessity for effective governance and oversight.
