Govt bans importation of gaming machines

The government has banned the importation of all gaming machines into the country with immediate effect.

According to Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i, all agencies involved in importation have been made aware of the ban and are under strict instructions not to allow such consignments into the country.

Speaking at Giotto dumpsite in Nakuru town where he supervised the destruction and burning of more than 1,000 gaming machines confiscated in the region, the CS said the machines have had a negative impact on society and have contributed to school dropouts, social immorality and insecurity.

He said all security teams and regional administrators have been directed to crackdown on those operating the businesses and to ensure that they are dealt with decisively.

“The government has today suspended the importation of these machines into the country. All agencies involved are aware; Kenya Revenue Authority is aware… Kenya Bureau of Standards is aware… Kenya Ports of Authority is aware,” said Matiang’i.

“None of the machines will leave the port of Mombasa or whichever entry point they are coming from. Things like these that hurt our country, hurt our children, are things we need to phase (out). You cannot make money at the expense of our children.”

Dr. Matiang’i further said the crackdown on foreigners without work permits in the country would be intensified, adding that most of them trade in illegal businesses that contribute to the social ills in society.

He re-affirmed that foreigners without work permits must leave the country immediately.