Gambling tables, gambling chips, records, account books and alcohol were discovered in the allegedly unlicensed premises
A stock picture of some gambling chips(Image: PA)
Two people have been arrested as part of an investigation into reports of illegal gambling at a premises in Manchester city centre.
Police, licencing officers and representatives from the Gambling Commission visited the premises on Chester road yesterday (Thursday, May 28).
Inside they found gambling tables, gambling chips, records, account books, alcohol, and ‘other material’ inside the allegedly unlicensed premises Greater Manchester Police (GMP) said.
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A man, aged 33, and a 66 year-old woman were arrested on suspicion of two offences under the Gambling Act 2005 and Licensing Act 2003 respectively, the force said.
Cash and mobile phones were siezed. Specialist officers from GMP’s Financial Crime Unit and Money Laundering teams are suporting the probe, they added.
PC Nial Vivian(Image: Jason Roberts /Manchester Evening News)
PC Nial Vivian, said: “It is important that all businesses adhere to the laws put in place, and which is why we took action in the city centre yesterday.
“Illegal gambling can cause many issues – from disputes about cash to money laundering – and it is important that we shut them down whenever we come across them.
“We have worked closely with our partners in both the Gambling Commission and Manchester City Council.”
Sue Young, Gambling Commission Executive Director of Operations, said: “Tackling all forms of illegal gambling is a focus for the Commission so we were keen to work in partnership with Greater Manchester Police and Manchester City Council on this operation.”