HDB gambling dens exposed
Shin Min Daily News
A woman was shocked to find out that her elderly mother had lost more than $100,000 of her life savings at an illegal gambling den in the heartlands.
The woman, known only as Michelle, was so angry that she decided to expose the gambling syndicate and its secret dens.
Michelle found out what her mother had done when she paid a visit to her flat in Bukit Panjang and discovered that the front door had been splashed with paint.
Loansharks had also been calling the house to hound the old lady to repay a debt of $20,000.
Her 70-year-old mother confessed that she had lost her life savings of $100,000 at the gambling den, then borrowed money from loansharks.
“My mother didn’t use to be a heavy gambler. When my father was alive, he would keep an eye on her. But he died two years ago from cancer and she has gone out of control in her gambling habits,” said Michelle.
She asked around and found out there are three gambling dens in the area run by a woman in her 50s.
Reporters checked the addresses supplied by Michelle and met with residents who confirmed that these units have indeed been converted into illegal gambling dens.
One of the residents also revealed that people have been gambling at these units for many years.
They believe that the dens have escaped the authorities’ attention because they cater mainly to regulars.
All three dens are alike in many ways.
They are all corner units and situated near larger roads so it is easy to keep an eye on happenings outside the flat.
A lot of clutter is left on the corridors outside the units, which seem to have soundproofing measures. The units’ windows are never opened.
According to Housing Board rules, flat owners found carrying out illegal activities in their units may face a fine or have the flat repossessed.
Meanwhile, Michelle hopes that the police will take action on these dens as soon as possible.
Source: Shin Min Daily News, 10 May 2012.
