The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) has removed more illegal slots in the Canadian province.
More than 50 Prime Slots terminals were taken away as part of an ongoing clampdown in Ontario. Machines were removed following over 200 inspections at liquor-licensed and lottery retail establishments during July and August.
AGCO said the machines had been operating “unlawfully” and without regulatory oversight. The illegal slots were situated in restaurants, convenience stores, and other locations accessible to minors and other vulnerable groups.
Prime Slots machines have been marketed as games that only require skill. However, AGCO testing determined that these terminals ordinarily rely on chance, and, as such, are not permitted unless they are from a licensed supplier, approved and used in a regulated space.
Illegal Slots Market Tops $30 Billion in North America
The removal marks the latest step in AGCO’s continuing battle against illegal slot machines in Ontario. The regulator noted that the total number of unregulated gaming machines has escalated across North America.
American Gaming Association research estimated that 625,000 unregulated gaming machines are operating across the U.S. These machines generate an estimated $30 billion in annual revenue.
“While other jurisdictions grapple with the entrenchment of these unlawful gaming machines, AGCO has taken a proactive stance to ensure they do not take root here in Ontario,” AGCO CEO and Registrar Karin Schnarr said.
“Our recent regulatory actions are a clear demonstration of our comprehensive approach and our long-term commitment.”
