Illegal Gambling Exposed: Prison Guards Lose Bonus Money After Betting Slips and Drug Discovery

In a startling incident at the Cebu Provincial Detention and Rehabilitation Center (CPDRC) in the Philippines, prison guards lost their potential bonuses after a police raid discovered inmates in possession of betting slips and illegal substances. Each guard forfeited a bonus of $200, facing scrutiny for their failure to prevent these activities within the facility.

The operation, dubbed “Operation Greyhound,” yielded significant evidence against the guards and inmates. Local police uncovered 20 gambling tally sheets along with lists that contained code names, number combinations, and approximately $350 in betting cash.

Illegal betting operations within the prison have been linked to the popular three-digit numbers game, known locally as Swertres, which is overseen by the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO). The PCSO runs three draws daily to deter citizens from participating in illegal number games such as “jueteng” and “masiao.”

Key Findings From the Raid

The police not only seized betting sheets but also discovered:

• 230 grams of crystal methamphetamine valued at approximately $4,700
• 47 mobile phones
• Various drug paraphernalia
• Knives and other weapons
• Portable DVD players and assorted electronics

Supt. Mario Baquiran, head of the police’s Provincial Public Safety Company, remarked, “The items we found are enough proof that the inmates are involved in gambling inside CPDRC.” This was the fifth raid conducted in just one year, underscoring ongoing issues within the facility regarding smuggling operations.

Governor’s Response

Governor Hilario Davide III had initially approved bonuses for all government employees as a reward for excellence. However, after the discovery of the illegal gambling operations, he rescinded those bonuses for the CPDRC guards, delivering a stern warning in a public address.

“Better shape up, those assigned at the CPDRC,” he stated. “Heads will roll. I can assure you, heads will roll.” This could potentially lead to a significant reshuffling of staff, as suspicions arise that some guards may be complicit in facilitating the smuggling of contraband.

National Crackdown on Illegal Gambling

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has prioritized the eradication of illegal gambling, ranking it alongside his campaigns against drugs and corruption. In a recent crack down, authorities shut down a trans-national cyber gambling operation and arrested numerous individuals linked to illegal websites.

Moreover, even licensed venues have faced challenges. The notable Resorts World Manila suffered a devastating attack earlier in the year, resulting in multiple casualties and significant damage. Such incidents highlight the complexities of managing both illegal and regulated gambling sectors in the Philippines.

Conclusion

The recent actions at the Cebu Provincial Detention and Rehabilitation Center illustrate significant challenges in monitoring and controlling illegal gambling activities within prisons. The consequences for prison staff and inmates alike emphasize the need for improved oversight and accountability in such facilities.