Johannesburg - The Gauteng Gambling Board has said it is illegal to gamble online, Business Day reported on Tuesday.
This followed a North Gauteng High Court judgment on the jurisdiction of online gambling transactions in the country which was handed down on August 20.
Internet operators who offer online gambling to South African residents for gain and a player or punter who takes part in online gambling would both be guilty of breaking the law, the report said.
The ruling also makes internet service providers accountable for the services as well as financial transaction providers such as banks.
According to Gauteng Gambling Board head of legal services, Lucky Lukhwareni, online casinos are now up for prosecution.
"That's why we approached the media to alert them of the judgment which makes online casino operations illegal, and if they continue we will have them arrested and fight for conviction," said the report.
Those entities that advertise or facilitate the advertisement of online gambling - including radio and television stations, print media and outdoor advertising agencies - will also face the law.
Persons who are prosecuted and found guilty of breach or contravention of the gambling legislation could receive a fine of R10m or 10 years in jail, or both.
- Fin24.com