FBI and Local Police Bust Massive Illegal Gambling Ring in Hawaii: 15 Suspects Charged and $150,000 in Cash Seized

Federal authorities and local law enforcement recently dismantled an illegal gambling operation on the island of Oahu, Hawaii, charging 15 suspects in connection with the scheme. This operation involved the seizure of 60 non-permitted gaming machines and approximately $150,000 in cash, marking a significant action against illegal gambling in the state.

Among the 15 suspects in custody, eight were apprehended while seven remain on the run. Law enforcement has yet to release the identities of those arrested or those who are evading capture.

This operation was a collaborative effort involving the FBI, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Department of Homeland Security, and the Honolulu Police Department (HPD). US Attorney Kenji Price indicated that these raids are part of a larger initiative to combat illegal gaming across the state.

“With today’s announcement of criminal charges, civil forfeitures, complaints, and seizures, we’re communicating a very clear message to illegal game room owners,” Price stated. “Our goal is to take your property through civil or criminal forfeiture. And if you or anyone else you know happens to get a cut of the proceeds of illegal gambling, we’ll be trying to seize that, too.”

Strict Anti-Gaming Stance

Hawaii is known for having some of the strictest anti-gaming laws in the United States. The state permits only social gambling under specific conditions, meaning players cannot receive anything of value except for their personal winnings.

To further illustrate the state’s commitment to prohibiting gambling:

• Hawaii, alongside Utah, is one of only two states without any form of legalized gambling, including casinos, racetracks, and lotteries.
• Social gambling is only permitted when no player receives anything of value other than personal gambling winnings, hence ensuring that no profits are made from the activity.
• Prohibition extends to all public spaces, including hotels, bars, parks, and businesses.

Overview of the Charges

Among the suspects charged, several individuals are facing serious allegations including:

• Zongqi Ding, Tommy Can Wei Lee, Zhong Chen, Endrews Setefano, Paolo Ioane, and Matthew Samuela are charged with conducting and owning a gambling business.
• Additionally, Jason Ishizuka, Aiyan Zhang, Seng Long Lio, Shi Min Huang, Alex Hui Zhang, and Freddy Siatunuu face similar charges linked to their operations at another location.
• Ifo Nimoai Jr. has been charged for possessing a controlled substance with intent to distribute and for possessing a firearm associated with drug trafficking.

Nimoai, a previously convicted felon, was reportedly found at one of the illegal gaming properties last year with methamphetamine, cocaine, marijuana, and a .45 caliber pistol.

This incident not only highlights the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in curbing illegal gambling in Hawaii but also serves as a reminder of the state’s firm stance against such activities. The case is developing and will continue to attract attention as the remaining suspects are pursued.

In summary, the recent bust of the Hawaii gambling ring underscores the state’s determination to combat illegal gambling while simultaneously highlighting the need for ongoing vigilance in enforcing gaming laws. As authorities continue to pursue the remaining suspects, the outcome of this operation will set a precedent for future enforcement actions focused on illegal gambling in Hawaii.