An amendment to the Penal Code has been proposed to criminalise gambling and the operation of gambling establishments.
The bill, submitted by Hithadhoo Central MP Ahmed Azan on behalf of the government, is scheduled for its first reading during an extraordinary session of Parliament on Monday.
Under the amendment, gambling and operating a gambling establishment would be classified as a fourth-degree offence, punishable by imprisonment. The maximum sentence would be four years in prison, with a minimum of four months and 24 days.
The bill defines gambling as wagering something of value in exchange for a specific outcome, including through electronic means or gambling devices. It also clarifies that prizes awarded in entertainment or sporting competitions and through the drawing of lots are not considered gambling.
The amendment also covers gambling devices and includes provisions to criminalise online gambling operations.
The bill, submitted by Hithadhoo Central MP Ahmed Azan on behalf of the government, is scheduled for its first reading during an extraordinary session of Parliament on Monday.
Under the amendment, gambling and operating a gambling establishment would be classified as a fourth-degree offence, punishable by imprisonment. The maximum sentence would be four years in prison, with a minimum of four months and 24 days.
The bill defines gambling as wagering something of value in exchange for a specific outcome, including through electronic means or gambling devices. It also clarifies that prizes awarded in entertainment or sporting competitions and through the drawing of lots are not considered gambling.
The amendment also covers gambling devices and includes provisions to criminalise online gambling operations.
