Millions in online slot bets: ESBU notifies 7 individuals of suspicion for operating illegal gambling dens in Bukovyna

 Detectives of the Territorial Office of the Economic Security Bureau of Ukraine in Chernivtsi region have served notices of suspicion to 7 individuals who operated a network of illegal gambling establishments.

The investigation established that between 2021 and 2023, two organizers and five administrators managed the operations of underground gambling halls in settlements across the Chernivtsi region. Access to gambling was provided through computer simulators without the required state licenses.

The scheme involved handing over cash to administrators in exchange for special access codes to gaming websites. After this, the funds were converted into virtual "credits" for placing bets, and winnings were paid out to customers in cash equivalents.

The participants' actions were assigned by roles: the organizers provided financing, rented premises, and set up equipment, while the administrators worked directly with clients, accepted funds, and maintained records of payouts.

One of the organizers laundered the profits obtained from the illegal activity through personal bank accounts. Subsequently, these funds were used to replenish balances on online gaming platforms and to pay for goods and services. The total amount of laundered income exceeded 4.7 million UAH.

As a result of authorized searches, law enforcement officers seized computer equipment, smart TV boxes with pre-installed software for accessing gaming simulators, and financial and accounting documents confirming the conduct of illegal activities.

Currently, all members of the group have been notified of suspicion under Part 2 of Art. 203-2 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (illegal activities related to the organization or conduct of gambling, committed by a group of persons upon prior conspiracy), and one of the organizers has additionally been charged under Part 1 of Art. 209 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (legalization (laundering) of proceeds obtained through crime).

Operational support was provided by the Chernivtsi Department of the Internal Security Department of the National Police of Ukraine and the Office of the Security Service of Ukraine in the Chernivtsi region. Procedural oversight is carried out by the Chernivtsi Regional Prosecutor's Office.