Goa witnessed a shutdown on illegal gambling activities as the state police conducted raids on 29 gambling dens. This raid resulted in the arrest of 29 individuals. This operation was aimed at curbing gambling. The police have so far seized approximately Rs. 50,000 reported the Times of India.

The raids spread across the state of Goa. 24 centres in North Goa and 5 centres in South Goa were raided, spearheaded by the Panaji and Old Goa police stations. The police have intensified their action against gambling because of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections scheduled for May 7.

Goa police is actively taking preventive measures against over 200 criminals and antisocial elements. Additionally, 238 non-bailable warrants have been executed as part of the police’s efforts to ensure the conduct of the elections. General elections in India are set to happen from 19th April to 1st June 2024.

Illegal gambling has been an issue in Goa, with recent incidents indicating the prevalence of such activities. In February 2024, raids by multiple police stations and the Crime Branch targeted Matka bookies. These raids resulted in 18 arrests and the seizure of nearly Rs. 19,000 in illicit funds. This crackdown across locations in the state has raised concerns within the community.

In January, the Crime Branch detained 11 individuals for engaging in illegal gambling activities at a casino located in Candolim. The arrests followed a raid at the Ocean 7 Casino within the Novotel Hotel, Annawado, Candolim, in the Bardez taluka. The police seized items like machines, chips, and other electronic equipment, collectively valued at a staggering Rs 74 lakh during that raid.