I think when the state ban on gambling, actually took place in my country. even my father once in jail for gambling. yeah the government banned gambling, but for now very easy to do gambling, especially with bitcoin? although of course your country prohibit even though it will not give any effect
But your father goes to jail because organized illegal gambling, or just play?
I never hear about that someone can go to jail just for playing.. penalty indeed, but jail!?! Can you tell us in which country the law is so restrictive?