Honolulu police say a search warrant served at an alleged illegal gambling room on Waimakua Place led to the seizure of drugs, gambling machines and cash Tuesday evening as investigators continued a wider campaign against underground gaming operations across Oʻahu.
The warrant was executed around 5 p.m. by the Honolulu Police Department’s Narcotics/Vice Division Gambling Detail. Officers from the District 2 Crime Reduction Unit, Major Events Division and Specialized Services Division also took part in the operation.
Investigators entered the location as part of an ongoing gambling probe. By the end of the search, officers had recovered illegal drugs, 18 gambling machines and more than $11,000 in cash. Police said all of the items were taken into evidence for further examination.
Honolulu police continue crackdown on gambling rooms amid Waimakua Place raid
No arrests had been announced when the department released details of the case. Authorities also did not disclose what types of drugs were recovered or provide additional information about potential suspects. The investigation remains active.
The latest raid follows a string of similar enforcement actions carried out by Honolulu police over the past year. In March, officers served a warrant at a suspected gambling room along Mala Street in Wahiawa. During that operation, investigators removed 10 gambling machines and seized more than $5,000 in cash.
Earlier this week, police shut down an alleged gambling operation on Hakimo Road in Nanakuli. Officers recovered 14 gaming machines and cash during that search, although authorities did not release the amount of money seized.
Police have also targeted other suspected gambling rooms across the island. A Pearl City investigation resulted in the recovery of 16 gambling machines and cash, while another backroom gambling case later produced the seizure of 16 machines and more than $5,000.
The cases have unfolded as city leaders push for stronger enforcement tools. In 2025, Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi introduced three measures aimed at reducing backroom gambling. One proposal increased penalties based on the number of illegal gaming devices discovered, making larger operations subject to felony-level consequences. Other measures expanded options for police and property owners seeking to remove suspected gambling activity from buildings.
Hawaii continues to maintain some of the nation’s strictest gambling laws and remains one of the few states without a state lottery. Debate over legalized sports betting has continued in recent years, but law enforcement agencies have simultaneously increased efforts against illegal gaming operations.
According to Honolulu police, evidence collected during the Waimakua Place search will remain in custody while investigators review the case. Authorities have not announced criminal charges and have not said whether additional enforcement actions are expected. For now, police say the investigation is continuing.
Featured image: Honolulu Police Department via X
