Two people have been arrested following a raid by Greater Manchester Police and Gambling Commission enforcement officials on a suspected illegal gambling den in Manchester.

The joint operation on the city centre premises found gambling tables, gambling chips, records, account books, and alcohol, with cash and mobile phones seized by officers.

“Tackling all forms of illegal gambling is a focus for the Commission so we were keen to work in partnership with Greater Manchester Police and Manchester City Council on this operation,” said the Commission’s executive director of operations Sue Young.

During the raid on 28 May, a 33-year-old man and a 66-year-old woman were arrested on suspicion of offences under the Gambling Act 2005 and the Licensing Act 2003, and remain in custody.

“It is important that all businesses adhere to the laws put in place, and which is why we took action,” said PC Nial Vivian of Greater Manchester Police. “Illegal gambling can cause many issues, from disputes about cash to money laundering, and it is important we shut them down whenever we come across them.”

Manchester City Council Licensing team members were also present during the raid itself, while specialist officers from GMP’s Financial Crime Unit and Money Laundering teams are supporting the ongoing investigation.