Law enforcement officers in the Netherlands carried out a search warrant at a site in the Amsterdam Western Docklands, taking into custody 11 individuals believed to be involved in illicit betting operations.
The action, which took place on May 20th, was a reaction to reports of unlawful commercial gambling at the location. Authorities worked together with the Dutch Gambling Authority (KSA) during the search.
During the search, investigators found people participating in illegal poker games and seized poker cards, poker equipment, narcotics, and two guns.
Investigators also took possession of electronic devices, including mobile phones and hard drives.
Police officials stated that the inquiry into the detained individuals is still in progress and the ownership of the firearms is currently undetermined.
The KSA provided assistance to the police during the search and is putting together a report on the case.
The KSA stated, “Unlawful gambling creates unfair competition for businesses that possess licenses and must comply with various regulations, such as preventing customer gambling addiction.”
“This illicit gambling activity and the presence of drugs in a commercial zone is a violation of public order.”
Moreover, illicit gambling spots are hotbeds for criminal activity, offering chances for money laundering. This can draw in individuals who are not hesitant to use force.
Poker games in the Netherlands are only permitted in designated areas within Dutch casinos. However, in recent months, law enforcement has carried out similar raids on multiple locations based on reports of unlawful activity.
Casino News reported that earlier this year, police busted two illicit poker tournaments.
In January, four suspects were apprehended in Valkenswaard for orchestrating illegal operations. A month later, two individuals involved in illegal cash games were apprehended in Vlissingen.
This week, news surfaced that the Netherlands is “investigating” new options for the Dutch Lottery Company (NLO), including the potential of selling it to private ownership.
Dutch Finance Minister, Wopke Hoekstra, has released an evaluation of the government’s stake in the NLO. The government intends to conduct an appraisal of all state-owned assets every seven years. This year’s primary focus is on the current condition of the NLO and Dutch casinos.
The report states that the lottery company is “financially and structurally prepared for privatization.”
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