In a significant crackdown on illegal gambling, two men operating a covert poker venue from an industrial unit in Splott, Cardiff, have received suspended sentences following a thorough multi-agency investigation. Reports indicate that this operation was overseen by Tarian, the regional organised crime unit for southern Wales, with essential contributions from the Gambling Commission, HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC), and Cardiff Council’s licensing team.
Between August 2022 and February 2024, the industrial unit was transformed into a poker venue resembling a commercial establishment. Investigators uncovered six poker tables, a spinning prize wheel, seating areas, stocked fridges, and surveillance equipment. A cashier's window, shielded by Perspex, as well as an office filled with poker chips and detailed financial records, were also found on site. Access to this underground casino was gained through a fire exit.
According to Tarian, the poker games were marketed both online and on-site. WhatsApp messages revealed promotions for subscription-based online poker under the name “Fish Tank Online.” Initially branded as “Ding Ding Poker,” the operation later rebranded to “Fish Tank Poker Cardiff.”
Financial records showed that Noor Rassam deposited approximately £260,000 (around $344,320) in an account tied to him, while co-defendant Panayiotis Karayiannis had about £124,000 linked to his name. Rather than bet against players, Rassam and Karayiannis collected a commission from each hand, known as "the rake."
In February 2024, following the execution of search warrants at their addresses and the poker venue, both men were arrested. They pled guilty on the first day of their trial to charges related to the possession and transfer of criminal property as outlined in the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002.
Cardiff Crown Court sentenced Rassam and Karayiannis to three years in prison, suspended for three years, on October 2. A related hearing under the Proceeds of Crime Act to consider asset confiscation is scheduled for April 9, 2027.
Detective Constable Charles Lan from Tarian ROCU criticized the defendants for prioritizing their financial gain through illegal gambling, generating significant untaxed profits at the broader public's expense. He disclosed that the organizers of the games also promoted them to individuals involved in serious crimes, including drug dealers.
"The harm caused by this operation should not be underestimated. Individuals lost significant sums of money through these games, with some becoming indebted to the organizers," warned Lan. He emphasized the lack of safety measures that legitimate gambling operators typically have in place, which could identify and assist vulnerable players suffering from gambling addiction.
Sue Young, executive director of operations at the Gambling Commission, reinforced the regulatory body's firm stand against illegal gambling, stressing that anyone running an illegal casino will eventually be caught and face substantial repercussions.
This incident is part of a broader pattern of enforcement actions throughout the UK, with numerous similar raids occurring over the year. Notably, recent coordinated operations in Sheffield and Doncaster resulted in over £110,000 in cash and a significant amount of gold being confiscated. Raids also took place in Manchester and Bristol during the summer.
During the Bingo Association's annual general meeting in May, the Gambling Commission announced its commitment to increasing enforcement against illegal land-based gambling activities. Acting chief executive Sarah Gardner noted the provision of £26 million in new government funding over three years to enhance efforts against such illegal operations, particularly those occurring in physical venues.
