Government Proposes Amendment to Criminalize Gambling, Introduces Prison Sentences

The government has proposed an amendment to the Penal Code to criminalize gambling and the operation of gambling establishments, introducing prison sentences ranging from one to four years. The amendment, set to be tabled during Monday’s extraordinary sitting of Parliament, was moved by PNC MP Ahmed Azaan Marzooq on behalf of the government. Under the proposed bill, gambling or operating a gambling establishment would be classified as a fourth-degree felony, with a basic sentence of one year, seven months, and six days, and a maximum penalty of four years in prison. The amendment also defines what constitutes gambling and clarifies exemptions, stating that participating in tournaments organized for entertainment or sporting purposes, including events that award cash or valuable prizes, will not be considered gambling. Online gambling is explicitly included in the list of offenses. President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu first announced the move on December 10, citing growing public concern over the rise of online betting platforms and illegal gambling networks in the Maldives. Although gambling has been on the rise in recent years, the current Penal Code lacks provisions to criminalize gambling or the operation of gambling establishments. Authorities have previously blocked access to betting sites in an effort to curb the practice.