The Department of Law and Order has found 23 TikTok accounts involved in online shopping-based gambling this year. The account holders were notified accordingly. Similarly, the department and the Royal Monetary Authority have frozen 26 other bank accounts for being involved in gambling. Authorities say online gambling, especially on TikTok, is on the rise and has become a growing concern.
On TikTok, many individuals host games such as “Spin the Wheel” and “Lucky Draws” during live sessions. People pay to take part in such games, blurring the line between business and illegal betting.
In a phone interview, an official from the department confirmed that although the prizes in these activities are often in kind, the process meets the legal definition of gambling which involves betting and games of chance.
The department has also issued a public notification urging individuals to refrain from participating in various gambling activities, including those conducted through social media platforms.
It further stated that if such activities continue despite the warning, legal action will be taken.
The department has also uncovered more than 100 gambling-related cases on Telegram.
Many people BBS spoke to said they do not consider such activities fair or appropriate.
Dechen Lhaden, a Thimphu resident said, “These days, I have noticed people playing games on TikTok, some for fun, others for money. Many participants join by paying an entry fee, but in the end, only one person wins. From what I have seen, there does not seem to be much benefit in such games.”
Likewise, Ugyen Tshering Kuentok said, “People join these games hoping to win something. Some invest as much as Nu 600 or even Nu 1000, but in the end, only one person walks away with a prize. Such games can also create resentment and grudges between sellers and customers.”
Pema Yangzom who lives in Bajo town said, “I believe it is a form of gambling, and I don’t see any real benefit in such games. In fact, these activities can negatively impact licensed businesses that are unable to use such platforms to sell their products.”
The Penal Code of Bhutan strictly prohibits gambling in any form.
The National Council will deliberate on the Penal Code (Amendment) Bill which includes a section on gambling in the winter session.
The legislative committee of the House proposes to increase the prison term for offenders.
Sangay Chozom
Edited by Tshering Zam
