This story has new developments; see the updated version here.

GALVESTON – Police working alongside several regional law enforcement agencies, carried out a large-scale operation early Tuesday, targeting suspected illegal gambling operations across the city.

According to the Galveston Police Department, detectives and specialized units executed search and arrest warrants at multiple locations during the morning hours of January 6. The operation focused on businesses and residences believed to be tied to unregulated game rooms and organized criminal activity.

• 61st St. Plaza, 2115 61st St, Suites 101B, 104 and 108C
• Happy Buddha, 2827 61st St.
• A&M Grocery, 1228 39th St.

Investigators say the effort was the result of a months-long investigation into illegal “eight-liner” gaming machines and the financial networks connected to them.

Police served warrants at five commercial businesses and four private residences throughout Galveston. During the operation, officers seized numerous illegal gaming machines, an undisclosed amount of cash, and electronic records believed to be connected to the operation.

Several people were taken into custody and are being processed. Authorities say charges are expected to include engaging in organized criminal activity and possession of gambling devices or equipment.

Police say illegal gambling operations often bring additional criminal activity into surrounding neighborhoods, including money laundering and narcotics distribution.

Tips came in on Wednesday morning, stating Tong’s Happy Buddha reopened Tuesday afternoon. We are awaiting law enforcement to confirm if they were cleared or only there for one individual.

Additional details are expected to be released as the investigation continues.

_{Photo credit: Anonymous source}