POLICE investigations are continuing following a raid of a home in December in the eastern suburbs where it is alleged illegal gambling was taking place.

Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries (DLGSC) investigators, acting under the authority of the Gaming and Wagering Commission (GWC) and WA Police officers raided the home where 16 people were present.

Cash amounting to $60,720, gaming chips, and documents were seized.

Last week Racing and Gaming Minister Paul Papalia warned coordinators and competitors involved in illegal gambling outfits of the serious consequences they could face if caught breaking Western Australia’s gaming laws.

The eastern suburbs raid follows a similar raid undertaken in April last year by authorities in a Perth inner suburb.

As a result of that bust, three Crown Perth employees had their casino employee licences cancelled by the GWC, and infringement notices were issued to several people who were allegedly playing and/or wagering in an unlawful game.

Cash totalling $128,615, a baccarat table cover, casino-style gaming chips, playing cards, and other items were seized during the raid. There are possible charges pending under the Gaming and Wagering Commission Act 1987.

Mr Papalia said the actions taken last year by authorities in these cases send a strong warning to those involved in, or considering attending, an illegal gaming house.

Further information is on the DLGSC website.