Gaming machines illegally sited in taxi offices and takeaway premises have been seized in a joint operation between The Gambling Commission, HM Revenue & Customs and Wigan Council.

The operation has so far resulted in the seizure of nine gaming machines from four local taxi offices.
The machines were confiscated by HMRC who are continuing inquiries into non-payment of Amusement Machine Licence Duty on the machines.

Coun John Hilton, chairman of Wigan Council's licensing committee said: "We value working in partnership with other agencies in tackling illegal activities and were pleased to work with the Gambling Commission and HMRC on this operation."

Customs spokesman Dave Gostelow said: "We estimate that the unpaid VAT duty on these machines,which now forms part of the penalties for the businesses involved, and cash seized, will equate to more than £3,000.

"We want to encourage business owners to find out the right process before setting up gaming machines before they too face penalties."
Manufacturers and suppliers of gaming machines must be licensed with the Gambling Commission.

Gaming machines for use on specific premises operators must have either an operating licence from the Commission and a premises licence from their local authority or, in some cases, a specific permit from their local licensing authority.

The Gambling Commission has recently launched a nationwide drive targeting illegal suppliers of gaming machines.