Not just a slap on the wrist.

Games and Amusements Board (GAB) chairman Baham Mitra bared those involved in the controversial VisMin Super Cup game between Siquijor and Lapu-Lapu City may face criminal cases.

Mitra said GAB is set to conclude its investigation on the alleged game-fixing in the strange match, which saw players from both sides suspiciously miss free throws and blow wide-open layups.

Following the game, the VisMin Super Cup expelled Siquijor from the league and fined and suspended several players from Lapu-Lapu City.

“There have been a lot of allegations and rumors regarding game-fixing. But this is probably the time that there are people who will be actually charged,” Mitra said in Filipino on Friday, May 14.

Mitra said they are just gathering evidences and testimonies before they bring their case to the court.

GAB is being aided by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group and the National Bureau of Investigation.

“It is just a matter of time. I think these people should be given a lesson.” Mitra said. “I do not want to preempt anything but there is a big possibility that their licenses may be revoked.”

“We assure everybody that we’re digging deeper into it and we’re just making sure that what we have is substantial in the eyes of the judges.”

Despite the controversy, the VisMin Super Cup wrapped up the Visayas leg, with Mandaue City emerging as champion, and will stage the Mindanao leg starting May 30. – Rappler.com