SINGAPORE, June 9 (Xinhua) -- Singapore will intensify enforcement against illegal gambling activities during the FIFA World Cup 2026, as authorities seek to curb illicit betting and raise awareness of problem gambling risks, the Ministry of Home Affairs said Tuesday.
The ministry said enhanced enforcement measures will run from June 11 to July 19, coinciding with the football tournament, which typically generates increased interest in gambling activities.
The ministry said illegal gambling poses law and order concerns and lacks the safeguards provided by licensed operators, exposing individuals and families to potential financial and social harm.
Under Singapore law, all gambling activities are prohibited unless authorized, licensed or exempted. Singapore Pools is the country's sole licensed operator for lotteries, sports betting and remote gambling services.
The Singapore Police Force will also continue enforcement operations against illegal gambling syndicates and those assisting them. Authorities are also taking steps to restrict access to illegal online gambling platforms and advertisements, terminate local phone numbers used to promote such services, and block related bank account and credit card payments. ■