CIDG-7 nabs close to 70 illegal gambling machines

The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group in Central Visayas (CIDG7) has arrested 14 persons and confiscated almost 70 units of illegal gambling machines during a string of operation conducted in Metro Cebu.

“Ito yung mga video karera mga moli-moli, marami na tayong nahuli, more than 66, meron din na file-an ng kaso,” said Senior Inspector Edwin Lacostales, spokesperson of CIDG-7.

He said that among the persons arrested were bettors and persons renting the place where the machines are placed.

Authorities have yet to determine the value of the illegal gambling machines confiscated but said these were expensive due to the programming and build.

“Mga mahal din yan kasi pinapagawa at pinapa-program. Hindi naalis ang pera sa loob, hindi pa naming nabuksan,” Lacostales said.

Authorities conducted a month of surveillance and validation before they conducted operations in the cities of Cebu, Mandaue, and Lapu-Lapu.

Lacostales said Cebu City remains the hotspot of illegal gambling since the most number of machines confiscated were from Cebu City.

Lacostales added that most of the gambling places are located a few meters from a school, which makes it accessible for students who are easily lured by the entertainment that gambling provides.

“Minsan malapit sa eskwelahan. Kawawa yung mga bata and then ngayon, magdadamagan sila,” Lacostales said.

The first part of the operation was initiated in December of last year as gambling usually spikes during the holiday season, according to Lacostales.

He said that from the operations conducted since December, a total of 22 persons have already been charged.

He said that CIDG-7 will continue its intensified operations against all forms of illegal-gambling, especially in Talisay City.

MAE CLYDYL AVILA Police Regional Office-7 director Chief Supt. Jose Mario Espino talks to suspected ecstasy dealer Richard Go during the latter’s presentation to the media following his arrest.