Illegal Gambling Den Raided in Athens
Athens, November 26 – An illegal gambling establishment operating in Athens was successfully shut down by the Sub-Directorate for Economic Crimes of the Directorate for Combating Organized Crime on Wednesday, November 26th. The operation led to the arrest of four individuals and the seizure of illegal gambling equipment.
The raid, part of targeted actions by the Hellenic Police (ELAS), involved a coordinated effort with an operational team from the Directorate for Combating Organized Crime (DAOE). The establishment, identified as a food and beverage shop, was found to be facilitating illegal gambling activities.
Four Arrests Made in Coordinated Police Operation
During the raid, authorities arrested four individuals: the owner of the establishment, the temporary manager, and two customers. According to the police, the temporary manager, acting on behalf of the owner, was allowing customers to engage in illegal ‘froutakia’ (slot machine) type gambling.
A thorough search of the premises resulted in the confiscation of significant evidence, including:
- 16 electronic computers with corresponding peripheral equipment
- A central control and management server, comprising a central unit with peripheral equipment
- 5 surveillance cameras and one monitor
- The sum of 890 euros in cash
Further investigations revealed that the establishment lacked the necessary operating permits, and the surveillance cameras were also operating without proper authorization.
Charges Filed Against Arrestees
A case file has been opened against the arrested individuals, who face charges related to violations of gambling laws, personal data protection regulations, and the law concerning foreigners. The arrestees have since been brought before the competent prosecutorial authorities.
This operation underscores the ongoing efforts by Greek authorities to combat illegal gambling, which often operates outside regulatory frameworks and can be linked to other forms of organized crime. The use of ‘froutakia’ machines in such establishments is a common form of illegal gambling that authorities are actively targeting.
Continued Efforts to Combat Illegal Gambling
The Hellenic Police continue to conduct targeted operations across the country to identify and dismantle illegal gambling networks. These actions aim to protect citizens from the dangers of unregulated gambling and to ensure compliance with national laws.
Authorities urge citizens to report any suspicious activities related to illegal gambling to their local police departments, emphasizing the importance of public cooperation in these efforts. The successful closure of this establishment serves as a clear message that illegal gambling operations will not be tolerated in Athens or elsewhere in Greece.
Source: https://www.ertnews.gr/eidiseis/ellada/louketo-se-magazi-me-froutakia-stin-athina-eginan-4-syllipseis/
