The government is examining the lifting of a ban on slot machines after a spate of arrests indicated that the form of electronic gambling remains popular despite being illegal since 2002.

In two separate busts, police arrested three people in Athens and Volos, central Greece, who were allegedly found running slot machines and Internet gambling in cafes.

Since January last year, police have arrested a total of 373 people and confiscated 1,709 computers and games machines.

Sources said the government is re-examining the ban on gambling which could also represent a major revenue source for the state.

Greece banned slot machines in 2002 in a move that resulted in 25,000 people losing their jobs, according to industry sources.

Supporters of its legalization argue the industry could be regulated if it was above board and the government could help prevent a growing number of teenagers from using illegal means of gambling.