Gamblers in a betting shop /FILEThe Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has pledged a firm crackdown on illegal betting platforms.
The agency said the move is part of a broader campaign to protect Kenyans from exploitation and promote responsible gaming.
In a statement released Tuesday, the DCI said it is working closely with the Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) to strengthen regulatory oversight and ensure all gaming operators strictly follow the law.
“We will take stern action against operators who violate these regulations,” the DCI warned, singling out unauthorised online and physical platforms as well as illegal betting syndicates.
The agency urged betting companies to uphold ethical standards and avoid practices that encourage reckless gambling, particularly among vulnerable populations.
The statement also called on the Association of Gaming Operators of Kenya (AGOK) to lead public awareness efforts on the dangers of irresponsible betting.
The DCI encouraged industry stakeholders to prioritise consumer protection and responsible gaming.
As part of ongoing enforcement, the DCI reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the government’s recent directive to suspend all gambling advertisements.
It also issued a warning to social media influencers and bloggers to stop promoting betting through sponsored content and endorsements.
“To the youth and vulnerable groups tempted by the allure of quick wins, we emphasize this: your future holds far more promise than fleeting gambling gains,” the DCI said. “Education, entrepreneurship, and hard work remain the most rewarding and sustainable paths forward.”
The agency highlighted a growing concern over the sharp rise in betting, fueled by aggressive advertising and the widespread availability of mobile payment and online loan platforms.
These tools, it noted, have made it easier for individuals to fund gambling habits, often with dire financial consequences.
“Persistent ads are luring financially vulnerable individuals into these schemes,” the statement read. “Many spend excessive time and money betting, losing focus on more productive pursuits.”
The DCI concluded by urging Kenyans to work together in building a safer and more responsible gaming environment, stressing that the the well-beingthe country—especially its youth—depends on it.
