The Office of the Attorney General has reaffirmed its commitment to assist the National Lottery Authority (NLA) and the Ghana Gaming Commission in their efforts to combat illegal lottery and gaming operations in Ghana.
This assurance was made following a statement by Sammi Awuku, the Director General of the NLA, who revealed during his testimony before the Public Accounts Committee of Parliament that the nation loses approximately GHS 1 billion (about $130 million) annually due to illegal lottery operations.
The Ghana Gaming Commission has also faced ongoing challenges in regulating unauthorised gaming activities in recent years.
Speaking at the Ghana Gaming and Lottery Awards 2024 on Friday, September 27, Deputy Attorney General and Minister for Justice, Diana Asonaba Dapaah, emphasised the government’s commitment to upholding responsible gaming and lottery practices as well as cracking down on illegal operators.
“The Office of the Attorney General is a strong supporter of both the Gaming Commission and the National Lotteries Authority. Our mandate includes the prosecution of crimes, and we are fully committed to ensuring responsible and ethical gaming and lottery operations in Ghana,” said Asonaba Dapaah.
She further assured that her office would continue to prosecute any criminal offences related to illegal gaming and lottery under the jurisdiction of the NLA and the Gaming Commission.
Diana Asonaba Dapaah stressed the importance of having strong regulatory systems, including proper licensing for operators in the gaming and lottery sectors, to maintain order and prevent illegal activities.
“To that end, it is crucial that all entities acquiring licenses to operate gaming or lottery activities are properly regulated. We will work together to build robust structures to ensure compliance and accountability,” she added.
The Ghana Gaming and Lottery Awards 2024, organised by Syndicated Entertainment Solution Ltd. in partnership with the NLA and the Gaming Commission of Ghana, were aimed at recognising excellence within the gaming and lottery industries while promoting ethical standards.
The Attorney General’s office, NLA, and the Gaming Commission’s partnership will be key in ensuring that illegal operators are brought to justice, protecting the industry’s integrity, and minimising financial losses due to unregulated gaming and lottery activities.