In the Odessa region, law enforcement officers have completed a pre-trial investigation into a co-organizer, two managers, and three administrators of a network of illegal gambling establishments. The suspects are accused of organizing and ensuring the operation of underground gambling halls, as well as laundering funds obtained through criminal means, totaling 14.2 million hryvnias.
According to the investigation, the participants in the scheme accepted bets from visitors, provided access to gaming systems, helped customers with authorization and game selection, kept records of players, and informed them about bonus programs and promotional offers. In fact, they ensured the full cycle of operation of illegal gambling establishments.
It was established that the gambling halls were operating without appropriate licenses and without paying taxes. Only verified clients had access to the premises - it was possible to get inside by prior arrangement and after a phone call. The organization of the work of 27 illegal gambling halls was carried out by two key figures who involved young people aged 18 to 35 in illegal activities. It was they who accepted bets, accompanied clients and actually conducted gambling.
In addition, the investigation established that the suspects established interaction with representatives of gaming payment systems. In exchange for transferring funds, the suspects received access to gambling games and virtual assets, which allowed them to mask illegal financial transactions. During the network's activity, the participants managed to legalize more than 14.2 million hryvnias.
During searches of gambling establishments, detectives seized cash, mobile phones, computer equipment, and draft accounting records. The total value of the seized property exceeds 33 million hryvnias. This property has been seized to ensure compensation for the losses caused to the state.
Six people have been charged with illegal activities related to the organization and conduct of gambling, as well as the legalization of property obtained through criminal means. The indictments are being prepared for submission to the court.
