Crackdown on Illegal Gambling Operations in Odessa Region
Under the supervision of prosecutors from the Odessa Regional Prosecutor's Office, a series of raids have been conducted in illegal gambling establishments as part of a criminal investigation into unlawful gambling activities. Equipment worth over 54 million UAH has been seized (Part 2 of Article 203-2 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine).
According to the investigation, a network of illegal gambling establishments operated in Odessa for an extended period without forming a legal entity, obtaining necessary licenses, and consequently, without paying taxes.
The gaming halls were located in non-residential premises and operated in a closed mode, without identifiable signs or advertisements. Players were invited only by prior arrangement; outsiders could enter only with recommendations from regular customers.
During authorized searches, more than 3000 units of computer equipment were discovered and seized, including laptops, monitors, system units, servers, mobile phones, notes, cash, and bank cards.
A warehouse was also found, which was used for storing technical devices and furniture intended for setting up new gaming halls.
Currently, efforts are underway to identify all individuals involved in organizing and conducting illegal activities.
The preliminary investigation is being conducted by detectives from the Territorial Department of the Bureau of Economic Security in the Odessa region.
