Honolulu Police to say A search warrant at an allegedly illegal gambling hall on Waimakua Place led to the seizure of drugs, slot machines and cash Tuesday night as investigators continued a broader campaign against underground gaming operations across Oahu.
The warrant was executed around 5 p.m. by the Honolulu Police Department’s Narcotics/Gambling Unit. Employees of the 2nd district crime-fighting department, mass events department and special services also took part in the operation.
Investigators entered the scene as part of a gambling investigation. By the end of the search, officers had seized illegal drugs, 18 slot machines and more than $11,000 in cash. Police said all items were taken as evidence for further investigation.
Honolulu police continue crackdown on gambling halls during Waimakua Place raid
No arrests were reported when the department released details of the case. Authorities also did not disclose what types of drugs were found or provide additional information about potential suspects. The investigation is ongoing.
The latest raid follows a series of similar enforcement actions by Honolulu police over the past year. In March, officers served a warrant on a a suspected gambling den on Malo Street in Wahiawa. During that operation, investigators removed 10 slot machines and seized more than $5,000 in cash.
Police closed earlier this week alleged gambling operation on Hakimo Road in Nanakuli. Officers seized 14 slot machines and cash during that search, although authorities have not released the amount of money seized.
Police have also targeted other suspected gambling halls across the island. The Pearl City investigation resulted in the seizure of 16 slot machines and cash, while another behind-the-scenes gambling case later resulted in the seizure of 16 machines and more than $5,000.
The cases have come to light as city leaders push for stronger enforcement tools. In 2025 Honolulu Mayor Rick Blandjardi introduced three measures aimed at reducing behind-the-scenes gambling. One proposal increased fines based on the number of illegal gaming devices found, leaving larger operations subject to felony-level consequences. Other measures have expanded options for police and property owners seeking to remove suspected gambling from their buildings.
Hawaii still maintains some of the strictest gambling laws and remains one of the few states without a state lottery. The debate over the legalization of sports betting has continued in recent years, but at the same time, law enforcement agencies have stepped up their efforts against illegal gaming operations.
Evidence collected during the Waimakua Place search will remain in custody while investigators review the case, Honolulu police said. Authorities have not announced criminal charges or said whether additional enforcement action is expected. For now, the police say that the investigation is ongoing.
Featured Image: Honolulu Police Department via X
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