Angola destroys over 180 illegal gaming machines in crackdown
Angola has stepped up its campaign against illegal gambling after authorities destroyed 182 unlicensed gaming machines seized during enforcement operations in Cabinda Province.
The country’s Institute of Games Supervision (ISJ) said the action forms part of wider efforts to combat illegal gambling, strengthen regulatory compliance, protect the formal economy, and encourage players to use licensed and supervised operators.
The machines, commonly known as “nickel hunters”, were confiscated by the Criminal Investigation Service (SIC) during targeted micro-operations carried out under Operation Rescue.
Enforcement operation in Cabinda
The destruction exercise took place earlier in the month at the Yema Sanitary Landing in the Municipality of Ngoio, Cabinda Province. It was attended by representatives from the Criminal Investigation Service (SIC), the Institute of Games Supervision (ISJ), the Municipal Administration of Ngoio and the Secretary for the Environment, reflecting a coordinated approach by public institutions to tackle illegal gambling.
According to the regulator, destroying the seized machines is an important measure in the fight against the illicit exploitation of gambling.
The ISJ said: “The destruction of this equipment constitutes a relevant measure in the fight against the illicit exploitation of gambling and demonstrates the commitment of public institutions to legality, public order and the protection of citizens.”
Regulator warns of risks
The ISJ said illegal gambling exposes players and society to a range of risks because it operates outside the regulated framework.
According to the regulator, unlicensed gambling offers no guarantee that prizes will be paid and provides no player protection mechanisms. It also increases exposure to fraudulent practices, encourages uncontrolled gambling, allows operators to evade tax obligations, harms the formal economy and the public interest, and makes it easier for minors to access gambling despite the legal prohibition on anyone under the age of 18.
The regulator urged the public to avoid illegal gambling and instead use licensed operators. “The ISJ urges citizens to refrain from participating in illegal gambling practices and to always look for properly licensed and supervised operators,” the regulator said.
The ISJ also urged the public to report suspected illegal gambling locations, equipment and activities through its official communication channels, saying that the collaboration of the public is essential in combating illegal gambling.
The official release concluded: “Legal game is a supervised game. The game is not allowed to under the age of 18. Report the illegal gambling. Protect yourself. Protect The Society. Gamble Responsibly.”
Part of wider regulatory efforts
The latest enforcement action follows increased regulatory activity by the ISJ, which is strengthening oversight of Angola’s licensed gaming sector.
Earlier this year, the regulator expanded on-the-ground inspections of licensed gaming operators across the country. Led by ISJ Director General Dr Nerethz Tati and supported by senior officials and technical inspectors, the visits assessed compliance with Angola’s gaming legislation, gathered operational feedback from operators and identified areas requiring regulatory attention.
The ISJ said the inspections form part of its ongoing programme of regular field visits aimed at strengthening supervision and assessing compliance with gaming legislation.
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