Police Crack Down on Malta-Based iGaming Company Linked to Organized Crime

An extensive operation involving law enforcement agencies across Italy has resulted in the confiscation of assets valued at around €400 million from a Malta-based iGaming operator. This move is part of Italy's ongoing efforts to combat organized crime's presence in the online gaming and betting industries, aiming to eliminate corruption and money laundering activities.

The criminal organization behind the iGaming operator was not limited to Italy; it extended its influence across Europe. While its headquarters were in Italy's Reggio Calabria region, it maintained offices in Malta, Romania, Austria, and Spain. These illegal operators posed a serious threat to customers, offering no protection or responsible gambling measures.

The operator utilized a "cascade" system, collaborating with criminal organizations to gain protection and promote its brand online. Local businesses played a role in collecting illicit proceeds, with a portion going to the criminal entities, effectively laundering significant sums of money. This operation was set to expand further.

To evade Italian tax authorities, the group funneled most of its illegal proceeds abroad. The key figure in the investigation held a prominent position within the Malta-based company. However, the operator primarily targeted the Italian market through various betting and gambling outlets, concealing its involvement.

Authorities uncovered this criminal organization during an investigation into the connections between businesses and organized crime. A significant wealth disparity between the crime boss's declared income and his assets led to the issuance of a seizure warrant for his assets. Subsequently, a second order was issued to seize assets associated with three related iGaming companies.

The total estimated value of the seized assets stands at approximately €400 million. The suspect is now under special surveillance for two and a half years, with restrictions on leaving his municipality. This marks a significant success for Italy's financial police and Public Prosecutor's office, ensuring the safety of Europeans from these offending operators.

The online gaming and betting sector remains susceptible to criminal influence and money laundering. Law enforcement continues to work diligently to root out corruption. While Italy has experience in uncovering gambling-related crime, the widespread reach of these illegal networks poses a persistent challenge. Hopefully, this investigation will serve as a warning to other such enterprises before they can cause significant harm.