A group of fourteen non-Kenyan citizens, primarily originating from Eastern Europe and working for the sports wagering firm SportPesa, were expelled from Kenya at the behest of Interior Minister Fred Matiang’i. These individuals were alleged to be participating in unlawful gaming practices and employed without the required authorizations. This measure comes in the wake of multiple searches carried out by Kenyan officials at various SportPesa locations in Nairobi earlier this week. The officials were attempting to locate paperwork pertaining to the company’s recently reinstated online betting activities.
SportPesa, an organization that previously experienced closures in 2019 because of tax disagreements and regulatory complications, is presently entangled in legal conflicts with the Kenyan administration, seeking to reverse the suspension of its operations within the nation. The company had re-entered the market utilizing a new license issued to Milestone Games Limited. However, the government, under the instruction of Matiang’i, maintains a firm position against gaming providers who neglect to adhere to regulations.
The authorization is currently inactive.