With the booming escalation of gambling facilities across the galaxy, none have gained more favor in entertainment and tourism than the planet of Umgul.  

The planet's spaceport is located in Umgul City, built on the limestone banks of a wide river that attracts numerous pleasure barges. The city is covered with signs and attractions for visitors, though cheating in the gambling establishments is punishable by death. Tourists primarily visit Umgul to see the famous Umgullian blob races, held in an arena carved from rock and ringed with fans to blow away the thick fog. The protoplasmic blobs, bred for racing, are kept in stables and monitored by the Umgullian Racing Commission for any signs of illegal enhancement.

But with the booming rise of such gambling establishments, the rise of crime and illegal activity has also been noted. Rumours have been abounding that underworld syndicates have been staking their claim here. Umgul authorities have noted that ships and suspects belonging to the famed Black Sun Syndicate have been spotted. They also have noted the famed pod racer, Garrick Farrell, has been rumoured to be spotted rubbing elbows with the syndicate. The winner of the Kax Rizik Race was spotted at Umgul's spaceport patronizing suspects rumored to work for Black Sun.

Also noted, more kidnappings reported in the past month, inside and outside casinos. Authorities believe one of these underground factions may be conducting illegal slave trading, which would account for those missing. A pilot of one of New Republic's squadrons, the Womprats, recently reported to the manager of the casino, Psyche, that one of their pilots went missing during the past serveral hours. Later, it was reported the Womprats did not wish casino security to help in their search. Instead, they wish to conduct it themselves internally. No word has been heard since.

In conclusion, the GNN wishes to advise for your next vacation trip to Umgul, please be wary of suspicious activity and report any incidents to the proper authorities.