Russian Authorities Dismantle Underground Casino Network Masquerading as Bookmakers

Security forces in the Russian cities of Krasnoyarsk, Kansk, and Achinsk have dismantled a widespread underground gambling operation that investigators say was operating under the guise of legitimate bookmaker offices.

According to the regional branch of Argumenti i Fakty in Krasnoyarsk, the operation was coordinated by the Investigative Committee’s branches in Krasnoyarsk Krai and the Republic of Khakassia, with support from the Ministry of Internal Affairs.

Law enforcement officials reported that the crackdown resulted in the arrest of three individuals believed to be responsible for orchestrating the illegal enterprise. Investigators claim that the alleged ringleader is a resident of Krasnoyarsk who, along with two associates, began establishing the covert gambling network in June 2021.

The suspects are said to have rented various commercial spaces and installed computer equipment capable of running illegal gambling software. "The group hired staff to maintain operations, including managers, administrators, and security personnel," police noted.

To avoid detection and appear compliant with regulations, the individuals allegedly disguised their operations as officially registered betting shops. However, police say they uncovered the truth during a series of raids.

On April 29, security personnel carried out a coordinated sweep, simultaneously raiding all 12 known venues tied to the gambling network—ten in Krasnoyarsk, one in Kansk, and another in Achinsk.

During the searches, officers confiscated significant evidence. The Investigative Committee reported that authorities seized between 200 and 350 personal computers used to host gambling games. In addition, police collected large sums of cash, ranging from 500,000 rubles (approximately $6,200) to over 2 million rubles (roughly $24,600).

Police released footage from the operation showing armed officers storming the illicit venues. One video captures a scene inside a facility where television screens displayed sports matches to simulate a legitimate sportsbook, while booths in the back housed computers running digital slot machines.

Another clip from a different location shows officers retrieving bundles of cash and coins from a register. Investigators also seized a trove of documents and other materials believed to be linked to the illegal gambling activity.

Authorities confirmed that the investigation remains ongoing. Police are currently searching the suspects’ residences and attempting to locate additional individuals who may have participated in the scheme. Some of those arrested have been released on bail but could face severe penalties if convicted. "If found guilty, the defendants could be sentenced to up to six years in prison," officers stated.

The crackdown in Krasnoyarsk comes on the heels of related actions elsewhere in Russia. Just last month, five individuals went on trial in Ivanovo for allegedly operating an unlawful slot machine center. Similarly, police in Omsk raided a suspected illegal casino housed within a busy shopping center in one of the city’s main commercial districts. 

By fLEXI tEAM