NAIROBI, Kenya – The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has raised alarm over the growing menace of illegal betting in Kenya, calling it a rising concern exacerbated by pervasive advertising targeting the vulnerable, particularly the youth.
With the increasing availability of mobile payment platforms and online lending services, the DCI is concerned about the ease with which individuals are being drawn into gambling schemes, often with disastrous financial and social consequences.
In a statement released by the DCI on April 29, 2025, the Directorate expressed deep concern over the widespread exposure to betting advertisements, which have saturated the media landscape.
The DCI highlighted how these ads entrap individuals with limited financial resources, encouraging them to gamble excessively.
This issue is seen as particularly detrimental to young people, who, lacking the experience and financial understanding, fall victim to these tempting yet exploitative schemes.
“The persistent advertisements often entice individuals, especially the youth, into gambling activities that drain their resources and time. This ultimately hinders their ability to engage in more productive activities, leading to long-term negative consequences,” said the DCI in its statement.
To address this alarming trend, the DCI affirmed its commitment to supporting the Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) in its efforts to regulate and oversee the gaming industry.
The Directorate has pledged to take stern action against betting operators who engage in illegal activities, such as running unauthorised online and physical platforms or failing to comply with gaming regulations.
The crackdown will also target betting syndicates operating outside the legal framework, with a focus on ensuring that the country’s youth are not further exposed to these harmful practices.
The statement also emphasized the role of gaming companies in fostering a responsible gaming culture.
The DCI urged operators to promote ethical gaming practices, and encouraged the Association of Gaming Operators Kenya (AGOK) to lead efforts in educating the public about the dangers of irresponsible gambling.
AGOK is called upon to step up consumer protection measures through awareness campaigns that highlight the risks associated with unregulated betting.
In addition to these measures, the DCI reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing the government’s recent directive to suspend all gambling advertisements across media platforms.
Social media influencers and bloggers were also urged to refrain from promoting betting through sponsored posts and endorsements.
“The youth and vulnerable groups are especially susceptible to the allure of quick financial gains through betting. We want to remind them that their future holds far more promise through education, entrepreneurship, and hard work than it ever could through gambling,” the statement emphasized.
The DCI’s actions come in the wake of an escalating concern about the consequences of unchecked gambling, which has led to widespread financial strain and personal distress.
The initiative seeks not only to curb illegal gambling but also to foster a safer and more responsible gaming environment across Kenya.
