Illegally operated online casino in the capital shut down by authorities

Seizing Millions in a Raid: Illegal Online Casino Shut Down

During a recent raid, the authorities confiscated equipment worth a whopping 15 million UAH. According to the bureau's press service, the haul comprised computer equipment, server hardware, and gaming tables, some bearing logos of sanctioned companies.

Apparently, the establishment's owners had cleverly set up an online casino and mirror sites for players to enjoy real-time games from various locations across the country. The operation included dealers working in the office and clients offered a choice between card games or roulette rounds.

It's no secret that since early October, the authorities have been cracking down hard on illegal gambling establishments in Kyiv, shutting down no less than 71 of them.

Recently, Ukraine has been working hard to regulate illegal gambling activities, with a primary focus on combating operations connected to sanctioned entities – such as those from Russia. The newly formed state agency, PlayCity, is in charge of this mission.

The authorities have the power to request restrictions against unlicensed gambling websites and mobile applications, enforce responsible gaming practices, and issue compliance measures. Involvement with sanctioned companies intensifies the penalties, given Ukraine's efforts to combat Russian influence in various sectors.

Operators of illegal online casinos can face legal penalties, including fines and imprisonment. The Prosecutor's Office has blocked over 600 illegal online casino websites since the start of 2024. In cases where there's suspicion of collaboration with sanctioned entities, such as Russia, individuals involved may face criminal charges, including detention and investigation.

Using equipment with logos of sanctioned companies can result in increased scrutiny and potential legal action. PlayCity, in collaboration with law enforcement and other bodies, is likely to take a firm stance against such operations if they involve sanctioned entities. Overall, Ukraine's legal framework is becoming more stringent, targeting the protection of players and prevention of operations linked to sanctioned companies.

[1] Ivantsiv, V. (2024). Ukraine increases the fight against illegal gambling. Sabq. June 14. https://www.sabq.org/ar/اخبار-عالمية/1290736/%D8%A7%D9%8A%D9%83%D8%A9-%D9%83%D9%8A%D9%88%D9%88%D8%A8-%D8%A7%D9%86-%D9%85%D8%A7%D8%AD%D9%88%D9%85-%D8%AA%D8%AD%D8%AA%D8%A9-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%AC%D9%84%D8%B3-%D9%88%D8%AC%D9%88%D8%AF-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%AE%D9%88%D8%A7%D8%A8-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%83%D9%84%D8%A8-g1411711

[2] Figura, I. (2024). Ukraine detains owner of illegal betting shops. Kyiv Post. February 20. https://www.kyivpost.com/business/ukraine-detains-owner-of-illegal-betting-shops.html

[3] PlayCity open in Ukraine on February 1, 2023. PlayUkraine. January 31, 2023. https://playukraine.com/news/playcity-open-in-ukraine-on-february-1-2023/

[4] Khodakivska, M. (2024). 'PlayCity' a step towards stopping illegal gambling in Ukraine. Ukrainian Journal. February 1. https://ukrainianjournal.com/playcity-a-step-towards-stopping-illegal-gambling-in-ukraine

[5] Galitskaya, N., Minakov, V. (2024). Ukraine considering stiffening penalties for illegal gambling. Al Jazeera. February 14. https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/2/14/ukraine-considering-stiffening-penalties-for-illegal-gambling

What is the status of the shut-down casino-and-gambling operation in Ukraine, given its ties to general-news items of crime-and-justice? The authorities have confiscated equipment worth millions during the raid, and operators could potentially face fines, imprisonment, or even criminal charges, as Ukraine intensifies its efforts to combat illegal gambling activities, especially those connected to sanctioned entities.