By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
6 August 2025- The North West Gambling Board (NWGB) said it noted with concern the post circulated by a Facebook page known as Kasi Hustlers, which contains misleading and inaccurate information regarding the process of obtaining a gambling license and the legal framework governing gambling operations in the North West. The NWGB said process of obtaining a gambling license is governed by the National Gambling Act, 2004 (Act No. 7 of 2004) and the North West Gambling Act, 2001 (Act No. 2 of 2001).
The NWGB acting Corporate Relations Manager, Lerato Mokgoje said any person or entity intending to operate gambling activities within the province, must apply for and be granted the appropriate license by the North West Gambling Board. Mokgoje said the process involves stringent checks, public participation and full compliance with legislative and regulatory requirements.
“The authority to issue fines and impose penalties for illegal gambling activities lies solely with the North West Gambling Board as mandated by the Act. The South African Police Service (SAPS), on the other hand, is empowered to confiscate illegal gambling machines and assist in enforcement, but they do not issue fines.
“This distinction is critical and mustbe correctly understood by the public. So, the content shared by Kasi Hustlers not only misrepresents the role and powers of the NWGB and law enforcement agencies, but also creates confusion among community members who wish to operate legally within the sector,” she said.
Mokgoje further said spreading false information undermines efforts to ensure responsible gambling and combat illegal operations. She added that they urge the public to verify any information relating to gambling licenses, compliance processes and regulatory enforcement directly with the NWGB through our official platform.
“The Board remains committed to transparency, public education and stakeholder engagement to ensure that all citizens are properly informed. The NWGB continues to enforce compliance with the law and protect the integrity of the gambling industry in the province.
“Misleading information hampers this effort and may expose individuals to unnecessary legal risk,” said Mokgoje.
The Guardian 