Authorities have arrested eight people after carrying out coordinated raids at two suspected illegal gambling venues in central Doncaster. The enforcement action involved several agencies working together to investigate businesses believed to be operating without the required licenses.
Investigators carried out the operation under the name Operation Snaresbrook. Officers from the Gambling Commission, South Yorkshire Police, Immigration Enforcement, and City of Doncaster Council’s trading standards and licensing teams all took part. The coordinated effort focused on disrupting suspected unlawful gambling activity and gathering evidence from the two premises.
According to officials, one person was arrested on suspicion of offenses under the Gambling Act 2005. Seven other people were arrested over alleged immigration offenses. During searches at both locations, officers seized nearly £9,000 in cash. They also recovered poker tables, slot machines, and account books that investigators said could provide important evidence.
The Gambling Commission said the latest action is part of its continuing partnership with police forces and local authorities to identify and close illegal gambling operations. The regulator added that it will keep working with enforcement partners across Great Britain to tackle unlawful gambling wherever opportunities arise.
Doncaster raids target suspected crime linked to illegal gambling
Authorities say illegal gambling venues are often connected to broader criminal behavior, including organized crime and money laundering. They argue that coordinated enforcement helps protect legitimate licensed businesses while disrupting wider criminal networks.
Councillor Gemma Cobby, Cabinet Member for Regulation and Enforcement, Planning and Safer Communities at City of Doncaster Council, said: “Illicit gambling dens are often linked to organised crime gangs and can be used to launder money. Their fraudulent practices also undermine trust in legitimate businesses that are licensed and regulated. Illegal gambling has no place in our city. Members of the public can help by making us aware of any concerns they may have about the practices of local businesses. We investigate all reports that come through to us so please don’t hesitate to get in touch.”
Inspector Lisa Bird of Doncaster Central Neighbourhood Policing Team said: “Illegal gambling is a crime and it is vital that all businesses follow the laws put in place.
“Illegal gambling is often linked to other criminality, including organised crime, money laundering and human trafficking, all of which threatens the safety and security of our city centre. We will continue to gather intelligence on those suspected of having links to illegal gambling and will work closely with partners to tackle the issue and target those involved in this criminality.”
Immigration Enforcement Assistant Director for Yorkshire Tim Gallacher said: “This was a successful operation for Immigration Enforcement, with officers showing the utmost professionalism throughout. It shows the close relationship we have with law enforcement and other partners to crack down on this illegal activity. Immigration offenders who are gambling every day by being here illegally can be in no doubt that they will be tracked down and removed at the earliest opportunity.”
Sue Young, Executive Director of Operations at the Gambling Commission, said: “We are constantly looking for opportunities to work with police and other agencies to crack down on all forms of illegal gambling.”
City officials are encouraging anyone who suspects illegal activity at a business to report concerns anonymously through the Citizens Advice reporting system for Trading Standards or by telephone. They said the raids also support Doncaster’s Safer City initiative, a joint council and police partnership focused on cutting crime, tackling antisocial behavior, and improving public safety across the city.
Featured image: City of Doncaster Council
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