Law enforcement officials in Salzburg conducted a successful crackdown on illicit gambling activities, confiscating a total of 76 unauthorized gaming machines.
The operation, spanning a period of nine days from April 6th to 14th, was a joint effort between the Austrian Financial Police’s Anti-Fraud division and the elite Cobra special forces unit. Officials declared the operation a resounding triumph.
Authorities discovered the 76 illegal gaming devices concealed within seven establishments disguised as various businesses, including nail salons, tanning salons, and internet cafes.
Individuals operating these illicit gaming machines could potentially face substantial fines of up to €30,000, although the average penalty typically amounts to €5,000.
Austrian Finance Minister Magnus Brunner emphasized the significance of this action, stating, “This strike against organized crime is a major victory. Illegal gambling operators reap substantial profits at the expense of individuals struggling with gambling addiction. The decisive intervention of the financial police is crucial, and we will not tolerate any criminal activity in the future.”
Throughout the four-day operation, a team of 15 financial police officers collaborated with 20 local police officers to ensure strict enforcement of the law.
These locations were all secured with magnetic locks and had surveillance equipment both inside and outside. Law enforcement officials stated they had to utilize force to gain entry into five of the establishments, while two required the services of a locksmith.
The Ministry of Finance highlighted one individual operating an illicit gambling den who exhibited exceptional audacity. After confiscating nine gaming machines on the initial day, law enforcement personnel returned five days later and discovered nine additional machines.
“Another bar was situated in a basement with 15 unauthorized slot machines,” the ministry stated. “This individual displayed remarkable audacity: his establishment was directly adjacent to a government building and accessible through the government parking area.”