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The warning comes following two raids by authorities on gaming houses in Perth suspected of operating without a licence or permit.

In the first raid, Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries (DLGSC) investigators, acting under the authority of the Gaming and Wagering Commission (GWC), executed a search warrant alongside WA Police on a business premises in a Perth inner suburb. As a result, three Crown Perth employees had their casino employee licences cancelled by the GWC, and infringement notices were issued to several people who were allegedly playing and/or wagering in an unlawful game. One of 4 alleged organisers, a 35-year-old man, has been charged with a money and property laundering offence by WA Police, with that matter currently before the Courts.

Cash totalling $128,615, a baccarat table cover, casino-style gaming chips, playing cards and other items were seized during the raid. There are possible charges pending under the Gaming and Wagering Commission Act 1987.

A second search warrant was carried out by DLGSC, GWC and WA Police officers who raided a home where 16 people were present. Cash amounting to $60,720, gaming chips and documents were seized, and investigations are continuing.

The highly successful joint operations between the DLGSC, GWC and WA Police have resulted in two unlawful gambling operations being shut down and several people who were employed in the casino industry losing their licences and consequently their jobs. Organisers and participants of unlicensed gaming events are now on notice that their activities will be investigated, and action taken.