A shadow economy flourished in Italy, generating an estimated €25 million through illicit gambling operations between 2019 and 2022. Three individuals now face arrest, accused of orchestrating a network built on illegal gaming “totems” – a modern twist on age-old vice.
The investigation, spearheaded by the District Anti-Mafia Directorate of Salerno and the Carabinieri’s investigative unit, extends beyond simple illegal gambling. Authorities are also pursuing allegations of money laundering and the deliberate concealment of assets, painting a picture of a sophisticated criminal enterprise.
The crackdown wasn’t limited to arrests. A sweeping asset seizure order targeted holdings valued at over €4 million, encompassing opulent properties, sprawling land, a collection of luxury vehicles, and a staggering €1.5 million in cold, hard cash. Commercial premises linked to the operation were also confiscated.
Italy’s Direzione Investigativa Antimafia (DIA) plays a crucial role in identifying vulnerabilities within various sectors, constantly working to prevent money laundering and disrupt criminal networks. This case highlights their ongoing efforts to combat financial crimes linked to illegal activities.
This Italian operation unfolds against a backdrop of growing concern across Europe. Just days prior, regulators from Austria, France, Germany, Great Britain, Portugal, Spain, and Italy issued a unified call for stricter measures against illegal gambling.
The joint statement emphasized the need to safeguard the integrity of regulated gambling markets and, crucially, to shield citizens from the inherent dangers of unregulated platforms. The borderless nature of online gambling and the rapid pace of technological change make it increasingly difficult to police.
Regulators recognize that illegal operators exploit these vulnerabilities, evading oversight and preying on vulnerable individuals. The collaborative effort aims to share intelligence and coordinate strategies to effectively combat this growing threat.
A core principle driving this pan-European initiative is a shared commitment to consumer protection, market fairness, and adherence to both national and international laws. Information sharing between jurisdictions is paramount to dismantling these illicit networks.
