Singapore Police Dismantle Illegal Online Betting Ring
Arrests and Charges in Illegal Betting Case
The Singapore Police have apprehended seven men suspected of operating an illegal online betting network. This arrest followed a collaborative investigation involving the US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and Meta, the company behind Facebook.
Assets Seized and Court Proceedings
Four suspects, aged between 28 and 53, appeared in court on October 6, facing charges for running an unlawful betting operation under Singapore’s Gambling Control Act 2022. Police reports indicate the syndicate started targeting victims in March 2023, luring them to open accounts on overseas gambling platforms and deposit money into anonymous bank accounts in exchange for digital gambling credits.
Initially, players received winnings to build trust, but when attempting to withdraw larger sums, they were pressured to deposit more funds or buy additional credits. Authorities estimate the total losses suffered by victims exceeded SGD 175,000 (approximately EUR 115,000).
Syndicate Operations and Police Raids
The gambling website was reportedly hosted outside Singapore to avoid local enforcement. The group reached customers both in Singapore and neighboring countries through social media advertisements and online promotions.
Intelligence provided by the FBI and Meta enabled local authorities to trace important digital evidence. This led to coordinated raids in Bukit Batok, Hougang, and Pasir Ris. During these operations, police seized assets valued at around SGD 500,000 (EUR 330,000), including cash, a luxury wristwatch, 15 bank accounts, and various electronic devices such as computers, mobile phones, and SIM cards.
Individuals Involved and Potential Penalties
Prosecutors identified 28-year-old Ong Wei Jie for accepting illegal casino bets between October 1 and 5, 2025. Another suspect, 39-year-old Samuel Chiam, was linked to unlawful soccer wagers from January to August of the same year.
Two other men, 52-year-old Song Yong Sheng and 35-year-old Shuek Jin Yong, served as runners, handling money transfers and recruiting participants for the syndicate. All four defendants are currently in custody and scheduled to return to court on October 13. Conviction could lead to prison sentences of up to five years and fines reaching SGD 200,000 (EUR 132,000).
Role of Meta in Investigation
Meta played a crucial role by tracking online advertisements, payments, and user accounts related to the illegal gambling activities on Facebook and Instagram. Their automated systems helped identify and monitor the suspicious operations conducted by the Singaporean syndicate.
Law Enforcement Commitment Against Illegal Betting
Deputy Director Yeo Yee Chuan from the Criminal Investigation Department highlighted the police’s firm commitment to combat illegal betting activities in Singapore. The nation has a firm record of tackling illegal gambling and related money laundering, with past seizures including luxury homes, vehicles, and gold bars from comparable illegal activities.
