Monrovia, Liberia – March 3, 2026 – The National Lottery Authority (NLA) has intensified its enforcement operations against illegal Mini Slot Machine activities across Montserrado County as part of its ongoing efforts to curb the proliferation of unauthorized gaming and prevent underage children from engaging in gambling.
Acting under its statutory mandate to regulate, supervise, and control all lottery and gaming activities within the Republic of Liberia, the NLA has deployed three specialized enforcement teams drawn from its Operations Division, Inspectorate Division, Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Department, and the Office of the Director General. The teams are tasked with ensuring full compliance with national gaming regulations.
The intensified operations specifically target unlicensed operators, unauthorized machine installations, and businesses found permitting minors to participate in gambling activities—actions that constitute clear violations of national laws and regulatory directives issued by the Authority.
To maximize effectiveness, the three teams have been strategically deployed across various districts in Montserrado County with the mandate to:
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Identify and shut down illegal Mini Slot Machine centers
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Confiscate unauthorized gaming machines
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Enforce age restrictions in licensed gaming establishments
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Conduct on-the-spot compliance inspections
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Document violations for possible prosecution
This coordinated enforcement approach enables real-time monitoring, stronger regulatory oversight, and swift action against violators. Leading the enforcement drive is the Deputy Director General for Operations, Hon. Christian K. Cooper, who expressed serious concern over reports of increasing underage participation in Mini Slot Machine operations.
“Protecting minors from gambling exposure remains a top priority of the Authority,” Hon. Cooper stated. He warned that operators found allowing underage children to access gambling facilities will face severe consequences, including:
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Immediate closure of their premises
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Revocation of operating licenses
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Heavy fines and penalties
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Possible legal prosecution
Hon. Cooper also called on parents and guardians to remain vigilant and discourage minors from visiting gaming centers. He further noted that the unchecked spread of Mini Slot Machines in communities, street corners, and near school zones undermines regulatory standards and poses serious social risks.
According to him, the NLA remains resolute in eliminating unauthorized gaming hubs that operate outside approved regulatory guidelines. He emphasized that the enforcement operations are not intended to suppress legitimate businesses but rather to sanitize the gaming environment, ensure responsible gaming practices, and protect vulnerable citizens.
The Authority is also working closely with relevant security agencies to ensure that enforcement activities are carried out lawfully and professionally. The NLA further warned that any individual or entity that attempts to resist enforcement measures will be dealt with in accordance with the law. The National Lottery Authority is encouraging members of the public to report illegal gaming activities within their communities, noting that community cooperation is essential to safeguarding the integrity of Liberia’s gaming sector.
The NLA reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a regulated, transparent, and socially responsible gaming industry that contributes positively to national development while protecting the welfare of the Liberian people.