Mahikeng – With the 2026 FIFA World Cup Tournament drawing near, the North West Gambling Board (NWGB) is cautioning the residents of North West Province to gamble responsibly and to stay alert to the rise in illegal betting scams and fake gambling apps.
The NWGB emphasizes that gambling is a form of entertainment and must be approached responsibly. Uncontrolled or compulsive gambling can result in severe financial, social, and emotional consequences.
Major global tournaments like the Soccer World Cup typically trigger a surge in betting activity. Criminal syndicates exploit this excitement by creating fraudulent platforms to deceive the public.
One of the Boards challenge is illegal gambling. “The Province loses over millions of rands in revenue and taxes annually to illegal gambling. Moreover, illegal gambling operations lack any form of social responsibility, corporate governance, or consumer protection frameworks. Because they operate entirely outside the law, they prioritize profit maximization without any regard for public welfare, community health, or the financial stability of their players” said the acting CEO of NWGB, Mr. Boitumelo Qalinge.
The Board issues a license with license conditions that licensees are expected to comply with for their licenses to be renewed, and are valid for a period of twelve (12) months. Acting CEO of NWGB encourages gamblers to gamble only at licensed gambling operations with a displayed framed A4 size license with NWGB logo and signed by him.
This Illegal operators work in many ways, some are actively using fake mobile apps, deceptive links, and social media ads to trap unsuspecting punters. They promise impossible rewards such as guaranteed wins, free sign-up bonuses, instant payouts, and fake jackpots.
Once a person registers and deposits funds, the scam platform shows fabricated winnings or inflated balances. When users try to withdraw, they are told to pay additional release fees, taxes or verification costs. After payment, the operators either disappear or demand more money.
These illegal platforms are reaching people through Facebook ads, WhatsApp messages, Telegram groups, SMS links, and apps downloaded outside official stores. They also copy the names, logos, and colours of licensed South African bookmakers to appear legitimate.
Board Members: Prof GN Malebe (Chairperson), Prof VN Peach (Deputy Chairperson), Ms PE Lobelo, Mr T Leshope, Dr G Marindi, Mr L Sibikiri, Adv OY Dibetsoe-Bodibe
Management: Mr B Qalinge (Acting Chief Executive Officer), Ms T Marabutse (Board Secretary)
Generally winnings from illegal operators are confiscated by law, and victims have no legal protection or recourse to recover losses. It is important for gamblers to confirm licensed operators through the National Gambling Board’s Verified Gambling Operators Web Portal: https://www.ngb.org.za/verified-operators/
In conclusion the acting CEO, Mr Boitumelo Qalinge said “This FIFA World Cup season can increase risky gambling behaviour. I urge the public to stay vigilant and educate their families, friends and communities about these scams. Remember, illegal platforms not only steal money; they operate outside the law and offer no player protection.”
The NWGB remains committed to protecting North West residents and maintaining the integrity of gambling in the province.
To report any suspicious or illegal gambling activities contact the NWGB on 018 384 3215 or send an email to ceo@nwgb.co.za or WhatsApp on 072 334 2468.
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