The National Gambling Board (NGB) has welcomed a landmark Supreme Court of Appeal (SCA) ruling that places strict limits on bookmakers, ruling that it is unlawful for them to offer fixed-odds bets on the outcome of casino games such as roulette.
The judgment, based on the Gauteng Gambling Act 4 of 1995, clarifies that bookmakers cannot disguise casino games as betting “contingencies” and reaffirms the separation of gambling modes under South African law.
Court closes major betting loophole
In recent years, some betting operators had begun offering livestreamed versions of casino games – like roulette and blackjack – marketed as “sports events” where customers could place fixed-odds bets.
While some provincial gambling boards allowed this under a grey area of interpretation, the Casino Association of South Africa challenged the practice in court, arguing that it violated the National Gambling Act.
The SCA sided with the casinos, ruling that casino games cannot be classified as events or occurrences for betting purposes.
“By offering online casino-type games, certain betting operators are effectively operating as casinos, in contravention of the law,” the NGB said in a statement.
“This is not only unlawful but also unfair, as licensed casinos are prohibited from offering similar games online and are subject to higher taxation.”
Broader implications nationwide
Although the ruling is based on Gauteng legislation, the NGB confirmed that it has nationwide implications, affecting all bookmakers operating across South Africa.
The Board has urged all betting companies to cease offering casino-style games immediately and to ensure their operations comply strictly with their licence conditions and gambling mode.
“Provincial Licensing Authorities must monitor compliance and take swift action in cases of non-compliance,” said Acting CEO Lungile Dukwana.
Interactive gambling remains illegal
The NGB reiterated that interactive (online) gambling remains illegal under the National Gambling Act, except for licensed online sports betting.
Any winnings generated from unlawful activities such as online casino-style gaming will be confiscated, and operators face criminal sanctions.
Penalties for violating the Act include fines of up to R10 million, imprisonment of up to 10 years, or both.
The ruling is expected to reshape South Africa’s online gambling landscape, closing one of the most contentious regulatory loopholes and reinforcing the country’s stance on separating casinos, betting, bingo, and limited payout machines as distinct and regulated gambling categories.
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