Crackdown on Illegal Gambling Operations in Odesa
Under the supervision of prosecutors from the Odesa regional prosecutor's office, a series of raids were conducted at illegal gambling establishments in Odesa as part of a criminal investigation into the organization and conduct of gambling activities. Equipment worth more than 54 million UAH was seized (part 2 of Article 203-2 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine).
According to the investigation, a network of illegal gambling establishments was operating in Odesa for an extended period without the formation of legal entities, necessary licenses, and without paying taxes.
The gaming halls were located in non-residential premises and operated in a closed mode, without distinctive signs and advertisements. Players were invited only by prior arrangement, and outsiders could enter only by recommendations from regular customers.
During authorized searches, more than 3000 units of computer equipment were discovered and seized, including laptops, monitors, system units, servers, mobile phones, handwritten notes, cash, and bank cards.
A warehouse was also found, used for storing technical devices and furniture intended for setting up new gaming halls.
Currently, the full circle of individuals involved in organizing and conducting illegal activities is being identified.
Preliminary investigations are being carried out by detectives from the Bureau of Economic Security in the Odesa region.
