by Linda Straker
- Loitering is Criminal Code violation which carries EC$1,000 fine
- Gambling without valid licence is Gaming Act violation
- RGPF increased police presence in Tanteen area
The Royal Grenada Police Force (RGPF) said that there is increasing involvement in gambling and other illegal activities among young people in an area of St George where several educational institutions are located, and some rigid measures will be adopted to curb the activities.
“As part of the response, the Royal Grenada Police Force has adopted a more proactive stance, with increased police presence in the area, aimed at curbing these activities,” according to a statement on its Facebook page.
After concerns were raised regarding students and youth gambling, loitering and other illegal activities in the Tanteen area, a meeting was held with key stakeholders on Monday, 17 March and included representatives from the Ministry of Education, school principals from the Tanteen area, and senior law enforcement officials.
“The purpose of the meeting was to find sustainable solutions to ensure the safety and well-being of the youth in the community.” The statement assured that the RGPF remains dedicated to ensuring the safety of the community, particularly its youth, and will continue to collaborate with all relevant stakeholders to create a supportive environment conducive to positive development and growth.
Loitering is a violation of the Criminal Code, which carries a fine of EC$1,000 and or 3 months imprisonment if convicted of the charge in a magistrate court. Gambling without a valid licence is a violation of the 2016 Gaming Act, which regulates gaming in general. An individual who “provides facilities for gaming or betting commits an offence and is liable on summary conviction to imprisonment for 12 months or a fine of EC$100,000 or both.”
The Gaming Act came into effect in 2017 and forbids the placement of slot machines and other gaming facilities close to schools and churches. The Gaming Commission is responsible for approving locations and conducting continuous inspections of these locations. The Gaming Act states that “all players at gaming facilities shall be 18 years or older to participate in all forms of gambling in Grenada.”
