Kathmandu, December 10

In the wake of allegations that the law enforcement agency has become lenient towards illegal entry of Nepalis into casinos, police today conducted a surprise raid on Casino Mahjong on the premises of Soaltee Crowne Plaza and arrested 19 persons for legal action.

According to Metropolitan Police Range, Kathmandu, eight persons were caught gambling while 11 others were casino employees who let them enter the gambling parlour. Some of the gamblers were allowed in the casino by issuing fake ID card of employees.

Police have also confiscated Rs 4,43,000, USD 130, casino chips and a bank cheque worth

Rs 700,000 from them. It is one of the biggest anti-gambling operations carried out by the police in casinos in recent months.

Police said they raided the casino after receiving information that some Nepalis were entering gambling berths with the help of casino employees. The existing Gambling Act, 1963 bars Nepalis from entering casinos with the motive of gambling. Despite the ban, gamblers continue to make their presence in casinos.

According to police, gambling also leads to social crimes. Law enforcement officials have long been complaining that the existing law is not tough enough to deter gamblers.