The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has announced an impending nationwide crackdown on illegal and unregulated betting platforms, warning that operators found flouting existing laws will face swift and decisive action.
In a strongly worded statement released by the National Police Service (NPS), the agency cited an alarming increase in exploitative gambling activities, especially targeting Kenya’s youth through aggressive digital and traditional advertising.
“In recent months, we have observed a troubling spike in betting practices that prey on vulnerable segments of society, particularly the youth,” the NPS noted.
The crackdown is expected to target unauthorised online betting syndicates, rogue operators circumventing regulatory oversight, and those leveraging mobile money and online lending platforms to entrench betting habits among Kenyans.
Support for Industry Oversight and Advertising Ban
The DCI pledged full backing for the Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB), which earlier this week suspended all gambling-related advertising across all media platforms for 30 days.
BCLB Chairperson Jane Mwikali confirmed that the sweeping ban affects all licensed operators and applies to advertisements on TV, radio, digital media, outdoor billboards, branded vehicles, influencer marketing, and SMS campaigns.
In that period, all gambling ads must be vetted and approved by the Kenya Film Classification Board (KFCB) prior to distribution, with companies expected to enforce responsible gambling in line with BCLB’s regulatory conditions.
Stakeholders Called to Uphold Ethical Gaming
The DCI also urged the Association of Gaming Operators Kenya (AGOK) and all industry players to demonstrate leadership and ethics, promoting fair and responsible betting practices.
Simultaneously, the Media Council of Kenya (MCK) was challenged to finalise long-awaited media advertising guidelines that would regulate how gambling content is presented to the public.
Public Urged to Support Fight Against Gambling Vice
Concluding the statement, the NPS called for a multi-stakeholder alliance to confront the growing gambling crisis, appealing to civil society groups, the private sector, and the public to partner in creating a safer and more regulated gaming environment.
“Tackling this menace requires unity and vigilance. Only through collective effort can we shield our communities—especially the youth—from the harms of irresponsible gambling,” the NPS asserted.