In Odesa, the administrator of an illegal gambling establishment will be tried: ESBU has completed the investigation

 Detectives of the Territorial Office of the Economic Security Bureau of Ukraine in the Odesa region have completed a pre-trial investigation into one of the administrators of an illegal gambling network that operated a gaming hall on Yaroslav Mudryi Avenue.

During the pre-trial investigation, detectives established that the suspect accepted bets from visitors, provided access to gaming systems, and assisted with authorization and game selection. She also maintained a special registry of players and informed them about bonuses and promotions.

The uncovered gambling establishment operated without a license or tax payments. Only verified clients could enter after making a phone call. The illegal gambling network, which consisted of 27 gaming halls, was organized by two individuals. They recruited young people aged 18 to 35 to accept bets, assist clients, and physically conduct the gambling activities.

The suspects established cooperation with representatives of gaming payment systems. In exchange for transferring funds, they gained access to gambling games and virtual money used to conduct them. The monthly turnover of the illegal service exceeded UAH 19 million.

During searches conducted across the entire gambling network, detectives seized cash, mobile phones, draft records, and computer equipment. Additionally, warehouses were discovered where the suspects stored technical equipment and furniture intended for setting up new gambling halls. The total value of the seized items exceeds UAH 66.8 million.

The administrator of the gaming hall on Yaroslav Mudryi Avenue was notified of suspicion for committing a criminal offense under Part 2 of Article 203-2 (illegal activities related to the organization or conduct of gambling games or lotteries) of the Criminal Code of Ukraine. However, the woman evaded the investigation for a long period. Her whereabouts were eventually established by detectives from the Strategic Economic Protection Department of the Territorial Office of the ESBU in the Odesa region.

The suspect was detained, and a preventive measure in the form of bail was imposed. The case has been referred to the court.

Procedural guidance is carried out by prosecutors of the Odesa Regional Prosecutor's Office.