Unlawful Betting Activities in Bern: Around 30 to 40 raids conducted annually
Underground Gambling Scene Raises Eyebrows in Bern
Illegitimate gambling establishments have been a recurring issue in Bern, with the cantonal police conducting around 40 raids annually within the city's jurisdiction. This clampdown on illegal gambling providers not only results in fines but also the confiscation of unauthorized slot machines and devices.
Bern Cantonal Police Engages in Rigorous Enforcement
The cantonal police in Bern have been pursuing unauthorized gambling operations for several years. On a significant day in 2024, an investigation was launched against an underground gambling den on Wankdorfstrasse. During an illegal gambling session in a clubhouse in Bern, around 20 individuals were scrutinized. One attendee of the clandestine gambling event was briefly detained by the police. Apart from seizing a substantial cash sum, the authorities also confiscated several illicit gambling machines and computers from the site.
Previous investigations in 2023 had already uncovered that a clubhouse had been utilized for illicit gambling activities in Bern. Out of the 13 individuals subjected to checks, one individual was arrested on charges of violating the Foreigners and Integration Act.
A substantial operation led by the cantonal police in Bern took place in November 2020. Around 61 individuals were checked in two clubhouses and additional reports were produced for infractions of the then-applicable COVID-19 regulations.
Similar Operations Carried Out in Germany
In Germany, similar crackdowns on illicit gambling providers have become routine. For instance, a gambling raid in Frankfurt on February 14, 2024, led to the seizure of over 60 slot machines. The operators are also being accused of participating in organized tax evasion.
As early as the beginning of the year, around 200 officers participated in a raid on an illegal casino in Cologne-Ehrenfeld. Significant sums of cash, unauthorized slot machines, and gaming tables were confiscated during this operation.
Federal Gaming Commission Imposes Penalties
The Federal Gaming Commission (ESBK) maintains a continuous dialogue with the cantonal police in Bern and collaborates closely with the authorities in combating illicit gambling. Since 2022, over 100 enforcement actions have been initiated against illegal gambling providers, with fines levied as a consequence. In Bern, particularly, surreptitious poker tournaments have become widespread, often disguised as secluded rooms in clubs.
Individuals interested in legal gambling operations in Switzerland are required to obtain a corresponding license. In 2023, the Swiss Confederation issued 22 new gambling licenses to providers within Switzerland. This includes the new casinos in Lausanne and Winterthur.
In response to the growing issue of illicit gambling, the German authorities have launched their own crackdowns. For instance, a gambling raid in Frankfurt on February 14, 2024, resulted in the seizure of over 60 online casino machines from an unauthorized provider.
Given the increasing popularity of online platforms, it's not impossible that some illegal gambling activities in Germany shift to the digital realm. Therefore, it would be wise for German authorities to pay close attention to online casinos in Germany as well, ensuring they comply with all regulations to maintain a fair and safe gaming environment for its citizens.
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