Two men have received suspended prison sentences for operating an unlicensed poker venue from an industrial unit in Splott, Cardiff, as confirmed by multiple sources on Monday.
The operation was uncovered through an investigation conducted by Tarian, the regional organised crime unit (ROCU) for southern Wales, in collaboration with the Gambling Commission, HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC), and Cardiff Council’s licensing team.
From August 2022 to February 2024, the industrial unit was transformed into a poker venue featuring six tables, a prize wheel, seating areas, stocked fridges, CCTV, and a cashier's window covered with Perspex. An on-site office contained poker chips, tokens, and records of financial transactions.
Access to the venue was said to be through a fire exit. Tarian reported that the poker games were promoted both online and in person via WhatsApp under the name “Fish Tank Online.” Initially branded as “Ding Ding Poker,” the venue later adopted the name “Fish Tank Poker Cardiff.”
Financial investigations revealed that Noor Rassam's account received around £260,000 ($344,320), while Panayiotis Karayiannis's account was linked to approximately £124,000. The operation charged a commission called “the rake” on each hand rather than betting against players.
In February 2024, authorities executed warrants at the industrial site and related addresses, leading to arrests and the confiscation of cash, documents, digital devices, and other materials. Both men admitted to charges of possessing and transferring criminal property under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 on the first day of their trial.
On October 2, Cardiff Crown Court sentenced Rassam and Karayiannis to three years in prison, suspended for three years, with a Proceeds of Crime Act hearing scheduled for April 9, 2027, to consider potential confiscation.
Detective Constable Charles Lan from Tarian condemned the illegal operation, asserting that the defendants profited significantly while neglecting tax obligations, adversely impacting the public. He noted the poker games attracted individuals involved in serious crimes, including drug dealers and members of organised crime groups, emphasizing the detrimental financial effects on participants, some of whom accrued debts.
Lan highlighted the lack of safeguards for vulnerable players in contrast to legitimate gambling operators.
Sue Young, executive director of operations at the Gambling Commission, reiterated the commitment to combating illegal gambling, warning potential offenders that any illegal casino would eventually be reported and face serious repercussions.
This case comes amid a series of coordinated raids across the UK targeting illegal gambling, with over £110,000 in cash and significant quantities of gold seized in Sheffield and Doncaster. Similar operations were also conducted in Manchester and Bristol. The Gambling Commission's commitment to enhance enforcement was underscored during the Bingo Association’s annual general meeting in May, where it was mentioned that new government funding of £26 million would support efforts to address illegal gambling activities in physical venues.
