German Authorities Raid Suspected €5.8bn Gambling Operation
German authorities have raided a suspected illegal online gambling network linked to more than €5.8 billion in bets.
More than 100 officers searched 11 locations as part of the investigation. Authorities also seized high-value vehicles, froze several bank accounts and issued an asset restraint order worth around €82 million. One arrest warrant was executed.
Prosecutors suspect five people of operating online gambling services without the required German licences from at least July 2021.
The platforms allegedly processed more than €5.8 billion in wagers between mid-2021 and the end of 2023. Investigators are also examining possible tax evasion, with an estimated tax shortfall of around €77.6 million for 2024.
Mathias Dahms, DSWV president, said:
This successful investigation clearly demonstrates the scale that the illegal gambling market has now reached.
The German Sports Betting Association welcomed the enforcement action and called for stronger measures against unlicensed operators.
The German Online Casino Association also supported the investigation. Both groups argued that the case raises questions about official estimates of Germany’s illegal gambling market.
DOCV also renewed its call for a nationwide federal licensing model for online casino games as Germany continues its review of the Interstate Treaty on Gambling.
