The Bibila Magistrate's Court has sentenced two men to 10 months of rigorous imprisonment after they were found guilty of operating an illegal lottery betting den.

The illegal operations were conducted using the last two numbers of the Mahajana Sampatha lottery of the National Lotteries Board (NLB).

These activities took place within the Meegahawathura and Miyanakandura police jurisdictions.

The NLB, a prominent state institution, channels funds to various national causes, including the National Kidney Fund, Ranaviru Seva Authority, Sports Ministry, Shrama Vasana Fund, and the Samurdhi Fund, through the Treasury from lottery sales revenue.

The National Lotteries Board has issued a stern warning that illegal betting using the last two numbers of the Mahajana Sampatha lottery is a criminal offense. This includes operating such dens, aiding, and abetting these activities.

The NLB emphasized that strict legal action will be taken against those responsible and urged the general public to avoid engaging in or supporting such illegal activities.