The Colombian gambling regulator, Coljuegos, is investigating 35 influencers and companies that operate raffles and promotions through social media for alleged illegal activity.
Companies such as Productos Epa Colombia SAS, Grupo Cossio SAS, Lechoneitor SAS, Supertiendas Olímpica and Javier Arias Stunt are among those being investigated.
“We are investigating individuals and legal entities that raffle off movable property, real estate and cash on social media, but who do not request authorisations,” said Marco Emilio Hincapié, president of Coljuegos. “In addition to incurring in an alleged violation of the criminal code, these people would be failing to pay resources that are subsequently transferred to the health system.”
As well as these 35 cases, Coljuegos is also investigating another 79 social media profiles that operate illegal raffles, but which do not belong to persons who can be identified. The operation of games of chance and luck without authorisation is a crime in Colombia. Those found administratively guilty by Coljuegos could receive a fine of 100 current legal monthly minimum wages, as well as disqualification from carrying out the activity.
“We invite all companies and influencers interested in operating raffles to approach the competent entities and request their respective authorisations. In this way, they can rest assured that they are not committing a crime and, in addition, they will contribute to the health of Colombians,” Hincapié said.
