In South Africa, the National Gambling Board (NGB) has issued a press release confirming that it will intensify its mission to tackle the rise of legal online gambling in the country.
In particular, the news release begins by pointing out that there are unlicensed gambling websites that Target South African citizens.
This reference to unlicensed sites does not specifically mention overseas online casinos or sportsbooks, but I believe that’s exactly what the NGB is implying.
With that said, technically, online casino games are not legal in the country, yet many of the country’s regulated online gambling sites still offer iGaming sections with online slots and live casino games, the most prevalent.
Although it appears that the South African government may overlook the fact that online casino games are available, it is now focusing on educating citizens on the legal framework in place, as stated in its recent press release.
NGB Confirms it is Illegal for AS Citizens to Gamble on Unlicensed Websites
It seems not many South African players are unaware that it is, in fact, illegal to play on online gambling sites not licensed by one of the country’s provincial regulatory authorities.
In this news piece, we’re going to break down what the NGB has to say about its recent efforts to crack down on unlawful gambling. We’re also exploring what you need to know if you are a South African player about the risks of playing on an unlicensed overseas online gambling site. Additionally, we will provide you with practical advice to help you navigate your options within this complex legal landscape.
Source: The press release was issued on August 25, 2025, via a PDF on the ngb.org.za website – titled SOUTH AFRICA’S GAMBLING REGULATORS INTENSIFY FOCUS ON UNLAWFUL GAMBLING ACTIVITIES.
Acting Chief Executive Officer of the NGB Vows to Fight Illegal Gambling Sites
Within the PDF press release document, the Acting Chief Executive Officer of the NGB, Mr. Lungile Dukwana says:
“As the gambling regulation fraternity, we remain unwavering in enforcing the law — online gambling is unlawful and unacceptable. Through targeted enforcement, inter-agency cooperation and public education, we are protecting South Africans from illegal gambling harm, unfair operators, and illicit financial flows. Our commitment is clear: ensuring that gambling in South Africa remains safe, fair, and licensed.”
South Africa’s Current Legal Framework
South Africa’s National Gambling Act 2004 states that it is illegal for interactive games to be made available on unlicensed sites.
Only Sports and horse racing betting are allowed, which is where I get quite confused personally, because as I mentioned, casino games like slots, roulette and poker are available on South African sites that are licensed under one of the provincial licensing authorities (PLAs). Leaving the likes of Pragmatic Play, which has made partnership deals in South Africa for its live casino and slot games.
Nonetheless, the law in South Africa, amusingly enough, the press release by the NGB specifically states that the country prohibits online gambling through interactive games like online slots and roulette.
What happens if you are caught playing online casino games in South Africa?
- The punishment could include confiscation of any winnings
- Possible legal actions
Although I doubt that there would be any legal implications. Additionally, I am unsure how the NGB plans to prosecute individuals. I believe the only way to prosecute is to hold the operators themselves accountable.
What Regulators Are Doing to Fight Illegal Casino Gaming
I’m not sure, but I have a sneaking suspicion that a massive site in South Africa is deleting its online casino game sections. That means removing their online slots table games, crash games, instant wins and live casino sections, especially after the press release by the NGB.
On the other hand, some sites might just wait to see who gets hit first. At the moment, the press release states that the NGB is working with Provincial Licensing Authorities (PLAs) and law enforcement, and has stepped up efforts to fight illegal platforms targeting South African players.
Right now, apparently, there are 90 illegal online gambling sites operating in the country, but there have been only 39 arrests in The Last 5 Years and from those 39 arrests, not many convictions.
A News24 investigative piece on South Africa’s online gambling legislative limbo highlights how lawmakers have failed to update the law for nearly two decades, preventing proper regulation of online casino games.
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