𝐀𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐮𝐠𝐠𝐥𝐞 𝐓𝐨 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧 𝐑𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐆𝐚𝐦𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐓𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐬

…𝒄𝒂𝒓𝒅 𝒈𝒂𝒎𝒆𝒔 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒐𝒏𝒍𝒊𝒏𝒆 𝒑𝒍𝒂𝒕𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒎𝒔 𝒄𝒐𝒏𝒕𝒓𝒊𝒃𝒖𝒕𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝒐𝒏𝒈𝒐𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒔𝒐𝒄𝒊𝒂𝒍 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒍𝒆𝒈𝒂𝒍 𝒄𝒐𝒏𝒄𝒆𝒓𝒏𝒔

By Kinzang Lhamo

Gambling-related offences in the country have fluctuated over the past four years, with a total of 76 cases recorded between 2022 and October 13, 2025. While there was a noticeable decline in 2024, gambling remains a recurring offence, particularly card gambling, which continues to dominate the statistics.

Records show that out of the total 76 cases, 60 were related to card gambling. The highest number of such cases was reported in 2023, with 20, followed by 15 cases each in 2022 and 2025. A significant decline occurred in 2024, when only 10 card gambling cases were reported. Although online gambling remains less widespread, it has shown an upward trend, reflecting the country’s growing digital engagement. Over the past four years, authorities have recorded 11 cases of online dice gambling, three cases of online ludo gambling, and one case each of online Shillong teer and online lottery gambling.

The total number of gambling cases has varied slightly over the years: 22 in 2022, 21 in 2023 and 2025, and 12 in 2024. The figures suggest that while 2024 saw a temporary drop, gambling offences persist, with offenders often returning to similar patterns the following year.

According to the Royal Bhutan Police (RBP), gambling cases are monitored through an online tracking system and public complaints. Offenders are dealt with according to the frequency and seriousness of the offence.
Colonel Pasang Dorji, Deputy Chief of Police for Crime and Operations, highlighted that gambling often correlates with other criminal activities such as battery, theft, and even stabbing incidents.

“The rise of digital platforms has made online gambling harder to monitor, even though the Royal Bhutan Police now trace activities through their online tracking system. Out of every 100 gamblers, a portion still operates undetected through informal or ground-level games, making complete surveillance a challenge,” he said.
He also emphasized, “Hereafter, no warning or first-timer excuses will be considered. We will take action against each offender according to the law- arrest, detain, and charge them in court. People are requested to cooperate and abide by the laws of the country.”

Authorities have also expressed concern about the social and personal impacts of gambling. While some may perceive it as harmless entertainment, gambling can quickly lead to addiction, financial loss, and strained family relationships. The RBP, in collaboration with other relevant divisions, conducts awareness programs ranging from grassroots campaigns and door-to-door visits to dzongkhag-level initiatives aimed at educating the public about legal implications and social consequences.

Colonel Pasang emphasized that combating gambling is not just about law enforcement but also personal accountability.
“Every individual must take responsibility for their actions to prevent themselves from engaging in crimes that could ruin their lives and those of others. Society’s growing interest in making quick and easy money continues to fuel gambling practices despite repeated warnings,” he noted.

While online gambling cases are comparatively fewer, they have become increasingly visible in recent years. Online ludo and dice games, in particular, are drawing attention.
“I have seen plenty of people playing online ludo games, and some even claim to make good money out of it,” said a resident. Another shared, “Many people know it is illegal but still play for easy money.”

The accessibility of smartphones and mobile payment apps has made online gambling easier than ever. A Thimphu resident observed that the trend has evolved from private online games to group gatherings.
“These days, online gambling does not always mean playing alone on the phone. Many people gather to play online ludo together. For some, it is just for fun, but a few have become addicted and are now facing serious problems,” the resident said.

People shared that while gambling may start as harmless entertainment, it can quickly turn into a destructive habit. The combination of easy access to digital platforms, group dynamics, and the lure of quick money has contributed to the persistence of these offences. Many believe stronger monitoring, public awareness, and legal enforcement are necessary to curb this trend.

Authorities continue to remind the public that gambling in any form, physical or online, is punishable under the law. As the country adapts to digital changes, law enforcement agencies are working to strengthen surveillance systems and enhance community awareness to prevent online gambling from becoming more widespread.
Despite ongoing efforts, the persistence of gambling offences suggests that enforcement alone may not be enough. Officials stress that collective responsibility between law enforcers and the public is essential to protect individuals from addiction, financial loss, and other social consequences.