Undercover police operations target illicit gambling venues in Mönchengladbach and Stuttgart
In a series of raids across Germany, authorities have cracked down on illegal gambling operations, uncovering slot machines, automated roulette tables, and large sums of cash. The latest operation, conducted in Schillerstraße, Mönchengladbach, on Wednesday evening (30.06.2023), follows a string of similar raids in cities like Stuttgart.
The raids were prompted by suspicions of illegal activities, with neighbours in Mönchengladbach expressing concern over groups of people frequently gathering in front of the targeted building. In Stuttgart, reports of illegal gambling have been recurring, and during a recent raid in a Cannstatter pub, 20 individuals were found playing cards, with thousands of euros in cash seized.
The discovery of such operations strengthens the suspicion that gambling is regularly taking place in pubs and private homes across the country. Investigators have repeatedly found illegal gambling equipment, money, weapons, and drugs in backrooms, suggesting a broader network of criminal activities.
Often, money laundering, tax evasion, or the formation of a criminal organization are suspected. In some cases, these illegal gambling operations are linked to organized crime groups, including mafia-like syndicates such as the 'Ndrangheta, which have been documented to infiltrate economically prosperous regions. These criminal groups tend to use illegal gambling as a cover or vehicle for further illicit activities.
The State Treaty on Gaming prohibits the installation of slot machines or the organization of other gambling without a corresponding license. However, some politicians fear that strict rules could push gambling into the black market, making it harder for authorities to monitor and control.
During the raids, seven individuals were present and their personal details were recorded. All confiscated items were removed from the buildings. No updates on the ongoing investigations or any legal actions taken have been provided.
The penalties for these illegal activities are based on the suspicions uncovered during the raids. As the fight against illegal gambling continues, authorities remain vigilant, aiming to dismantle these networks and bring those involved to justice.
The raids in Schillerstraße, Mönchengladbach, revealed that the targeted building was potentially being used as an online casino, further highlighting the increasing general news surrounding illegal online casinos in Germany. The discovery of such operations correlates with recurring crime-and-justice reports linking illegal gambling to broader criminal networks, including possible involvement from mafia-like syndicates like the 'Ndrangheta.
