54 slot betting machines confiscated in Machakos crackdown

In a sweeping operation in Machakos County, law enforcement officers confiscated 54 slot betting machines during a multi-agency raid in Mlolongo Township. According to Machakos County Police Commander Patrick Lobolia, the crackdown exposed a raft of criminal activities linked to illegal gambling. The machines were seized on February 11 and are now being held at the Mlolongo Assistant County Commissioner’s office, pending destruction. The Star
The raid was carried out by a coordinated team comprising officers from the Kenya Police Service, provincial administration, and Machakos County Government officials. Lobolia explained that certain premises in Madharua Street were flagged by the public, leading to the operation. He added that similar crackdowns are underway across the county, targeting not only illicit gambling but also narcotics and unlicensed alcohol. The Star
Speaking to the press, Commander Lobolia warned that illegal gambling destroys families and is a significant social ill. He stressed that gambling machine operators should be aware that their operations are under close watch and that they risk having their machines confiscated. Gambling itself destroys families… winning more money from gambling is close to impossible, he said, urging residents to avoid such nooks. The Star
Looking ahead, the crackdown aligns with a broader national effort to regulate and control betting operations, especially those operating outside the law. In recent months, government agencies — including the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and the Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) — have stepped up enforcement against unlicensed betting activities. The Star+1 Authorities in Machakos have vowed to continue their operations, signaling that anyone operating illegal gambling dens must either shape up or ship out. The Star