Dimapur police have cautioned that an alarming increase in the prevalence of both online and online lottery schemes being conducted especially by second hand car dealers and real estate agents, particularly in Dimapur, Chumoukidema and Niuland districts.
In a press release, Commissioner of Police (CP) Dimapur Kevithuto Sophie stated that such practice was in direct violation of existing government standing orders and regulatory legal frameworks.
CP said recent investigation revealed that a growing number of businesses in the second hand car and real estate sectors were engaging in unauthorized lottery-style promotional schemes under the guise of “lucky draws”, “bumper offers” etc.
Further, CP said those activities were being used to lure unsuspecting customers, create artificial hype and manipulate an individual’s purchasing decisions.
CP also stressed that such practices were not only deceptive but also illegal under current laws regulating games of chance and public lotteries.
Despite several targeted actions initiated against defaulters by the police, CP said such unscrupulous activities continued unabated.
Therefore, CP has urged to all the general public to remain vigilant and report any such activities to the police.
Meanwhile, police have advised business establishments, real estate agents, organizations, unions and individuals to immediately cease such activities to avoid legal consequences.
Police reminded that the state government has banned the sale of badges, coupons and calendars, other than those sponsored by the government.
Police further said conduct of lotteries was banned, except with permission from the government. In order to effectively check such illegal activities, police have urged to all the media houses including print, electronic, digital and social media, not to advertise/promote such illegal activities, as it would attract legal consequences.