Gaming board warns public Hi-Low gambling game illegal

THE National Gaming and Control Board is warning the public that a gambling activity commonly known as Hi-Low is illegal.
Chief executive Imelda Agon said the activity was declared unlawful on Feb 14, 2008, and gazetted.
Agon said the board maintained that the gazettal notice (G22) was a valid declaration under section 5 (3) of the Gaming Control Act 2007.
“The board is aware of individuals using the interim orders issued on April 18, 2008, to evade arrest and prosecution for the operation of the illegal game,” Agon said.
But she said the order was discharged on May 19, 2008, by the Waigani National Court.
“Similarly, we have been informed that there are certain individuals who have written and issued notices authorising the operation of this game,” she said.
“The National Gaming Control Board in partnership with the Royal PNG Constabulary have conducted operations to curb this activity.
“However, the game has continued to operate as a result of collaboration between the operators and certain individuals who have no respect for the laws of this country.
“Any individual found organising, assisting or conducting this illegal activity, if caught, will be fined K10,000 or imprisoned for a term not exceeding 12 months or both.”
Agon said there was also an increase in other forms of gambling, such as illegal slot machines (fruit machines) and bingo known as “Housie-Housie,” that were being conducted on a large scale in certain parts of the country.
Agon said she had requested the support of all law enforcement agencies and provincial and local level government authorities to help curb these illegal activities and restore social order in the communities.
“The NGCB under the Gaming Control Act 2007 is the only government body that is empowered to regulate and licence of all forms of legalised gambling activity, including lottery games,” she said.
“Therefore, no other government body at the national or provincial level is mandated to do so.”
Agon appealed to operators of Hi-Low and other forms of illegal gaming to cease and destroy all equipment.