A casino dealer has had his licence suspended after a police raid interrupted a game at an illegal home casino in Perth earlier this year.
The WA Government says that a police raid on a home in Marangaroo on April 17 interrupted an illegal game of baccarat attended by 18 people.
The casino dealer had his licence suspended by the Gaming and Wagering Commission (GWC) while the others there were allegedly players, organisers and a security guard, a WA government statement says.
Police and gaming investigators in the raid also found a professional-grade table and an electronic display of previous results.
Gaming chips, a card dealing ‘shoe’ and more than $83,000 in cash was seized.
Further charges under the Gaming and Wagering Commission Act 1987 are being considered, the government says.
CRACKING DOWN ON HOME CASINOS
Racing and Gaming Minister Paul Papalia says they are intent on dismantling illegal gambling networks that have ties to organised crime.
“If you’re running or taking part in these illegal makeshift casinos, know that it’s only a matter of time before we shut you down,” he says.
“People involved risk criminal charges, and licensed dealers will lose their licence and their job.
“We’re not targeting casual poker nights — these are professional setups, often tied to organised crime, which is why we’re cracking down.”
GWC chairman Gary Dreibergs says these illegal casinos “are used by people betting with money derived from criminal activities and attract players who have been banned from Perth’s casino”.
“Authorities will continue to be vigilant and work to disrupt these illegal gambling activities so we warn potential event organisers and participants to think twice as we could soon be knocking on their door.”
WA Police Minister Reece Whitby says they are sending a clear message to the organisers of illegal gambling events.
“Anyone thinking of organising or playing in unlawful gambling networks should expect the WA Police crime squad to knock on your door because they’re often linked to organised crime,” he says.
The government says this is the fourth ‘bust’ of illegal gambling houses since April 2023 with three other casino dealers losing their licences, legal action taken against organisers and cash totalling almost $300,000 seized.
