DUTCH & SPANISH AUTHORITIES RAID PROPERTIES IN ILLEGAL ONLINE GAMING INVESTIGATION

Kansspelautoriteit (KSA), the Dutch Gaming Authority, has reported that properties in the Netherlands and Spain have been raided as part of an international action against illegal gaming and money laundering. 

According to the KSA, on 18 May Dutch authorities raided and searched the home of a 56-year-old in Velsen. The resident is suspected of offering online games without a license and being involved in money laundering. Two luxury vehicles, along with cash, jewellery, and paperwork were seized. 

A property in Spain, belonging to the same individual, was also raided and searched, and more items were seized. 

Under the leadership of the Regional Information and Expertise Center (RIEC), the KSA worked with the Dutch and Spanish police, the Public Prosecution Service, tax authorities, and the municipality of Velsen to plan and carry out the actions. 

Investigators working with the Tax and Customs Administration are also looking into two Curaçao-based companies suspected of being connected to the case.

In a statement the KSA said: “Undermining crime blurs the boundaries between the underworld and the upper world. Criminals set up businesses for their activities, apply for permits and rent and buy buildings. For this they need the cooperation of the upper world, such as real estate agents and notaries. In this way these ‘worlds’ become intertwined and criminals can exert pressure on the upper world and take advantage of it.”

Staying with the KSA, earlier this month the regulator warned affiliates promoting unlicensed gambling operators to Dutch consumers to cease, or face imminent action.