By: Wilmot Konah
0555666441/0775793638
dadekolly20@gmail.com
Gbarnga, Bong County: Augustine Jallah, a resident of Bong County, has called on the Government of Liberia to enforce stricter regulations on Chinese gambling practices.
According to Jallah, the introduction of Chinese Bingo Machines in Liberia has led to a surge in underage gambling. He expressed concern that the lack of proper regulation is resulting in increased disobedience among teenagers, both at home and in schools.
“I’m not against the Chinese Bingo Gamble, but I’m against the way it is being handled in this Country. Our kids are always seen on the street playing and that is very bad for their future”.
Jallah also highlighted the misuse of Liberian dollar coins in these gambling activities, stating that it violates Liberia’s financial laws.
He urged the Government of Liberia, through the National Lottery Authority (NLA), to regulate gambling, particularly for teenagers, and to prohibit the use of Liberian dollar coins in these activities.
“They are often seen misusing our Liberian Dollar Coins to as a gambling tool. The government needs to regulate this Bingo game” Jallah asserted.
Jallah warned that if these issues are not addressed, it could lead to an increase in the number of disadvantaged youths and a society where the majority of young people lack moral values.
According to Regulation 001 of the National Lottery Authority (NLA) Act, licensed operators who knowingly allow individuals under the age of 18 to gamble can face license revocation and fines of up to US$2,500 per offense.
This regulation aims to protect minors from the harmful effects of gambling but seems to be on the contrary in terms of implementation.
