The Netherlands police arrested 11 people in a raid in Amsterdam on an alleged illegal gambling establishment.
In partnership with the regulator Kansspelautoriteit, police conducted a raid on a location in Amsterdam-West at Nieuwpoortkade on 20 May. The raid was conducted in response to reports that illegal commercial gambling took place on the site.
Investigators found people playing illegal poker during the raid. The police recovered poker cards, drugs, and two firearms.
Investigators seized electronic devices such as phones and hard drives.
The police said that investigations are still ongoing into the arrests, and it is unclear who the gun owners are.
KSA has supported the police in their raid, and is currently preparing a report on the incident.
KSA stated that “illegal gambling is unfair competition against companies who have a license and are required to comply with all sorts of rules. For example, in order to prevent gambling addiction by customers.”
“The presence on a business-park of such illegal gambling and drugs is an infringement against public order.”
“Also, places that offer illegal gambling are breeding grounds for crime. These places also provide the opportunity to wash criminal money. This could attract violent people.
Illegal Poker
In the Netherlands, poker gaming is only allowed at Holland Casino locations. In recent months, however, the police have conducted a number similar raids as a response to reports of illicit activity.
Casino Nieuws has reported that two illegal poker tournaments have been broken up earlier this year by the police.
Four suspects were arrested for organizing an illegal event in Valkenswaard, Netherlands. Two people were arrested in Vlissingen one month later during an illegal cash-game.
Privatisation
The Netherlands has announced that it is ” exploring new options” for Nederlandse Loterij (NLO), including the possibility to privatise the state-owned company.
The Dutch Finance Minister Marnix Van Rij has released an assessment of the state’s stake in the National Land Office. These evaluations are planned on a seven-year regular cycle by the government for all assets owned by it. The main issue this year was the NLO’s and Holland Casino status.
The report stated that the lottery would be “ready to privatise both financially and organizationally”.
