Gambling Commission tackles crime at Scottish betting shops

The Gambling Commission has ‘targeted a range of possible gambling offences’ in a joint operation with Police Scotland at betting shops in Falkirk.

In cooperation with betting shop operators, the multi-purpose compliance exercise on 19 January was designed to help train police officers on how to conduct inspections of gambling licensed premises, and to raise awareness amongst betting shop staff of the risks of crime.

Helen Venn, Gambling Commission Programme Director, said: “Today’s action is just one of many operations we have conducted over the last year across Scotland from North Ayrshire to Aberdeenshire. We have used this operation to target a range of possible gambling offences.

“Since 2014, we have undertaken nearly 200 proactive compliance inspections of gambling licensed premises in Scotland, which often involve police officers, licensing standards officers, and other agencies.

“We are committed to working with all our partners to ensure that gambling is fair and open, that criminal activity is prevented and that children and vulnerable people are protected.”

The regulatory body has also seen Walter Merricks’ term as Commissioner of the Gambling Commission extended for one year until 31 December 2017. The extension for the qualified solicitor has been made in accordance with the OCPA Code of Practice.