In Shymkent, the activities of a network linked to running an illegal online casino via a mobile app have been shut down. The scheme operated as around-the-clock gaming clubs and attracted users from several countries.
HOW THE SCHEME WORKED
According to the Financial Monitoring Agency (FMA), a resident of Shymkent organised and coordinated the work of an underground online casino, which functioned through a mobile app for playing poker Texas Hold'em.
The gaming clubs Vendetta and AMG600L were combined into a network called Nomad and operated non-stop. Participants were drawn in from Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan.
Messengers, mass mailings and a bonus system were used to expand the audience. Accounts were topped up via bank transfers, with virtual chips credited subsequently.
HOW THE ORGANISERS GENERATED INCOME
Income was generated through a commission charged on each gaming table, ranging from 3% to 5% (the "rake"). Additionally, virtual funds were loaned to players to keep them engaged.
To conceal money flows, accounts belonging to money mules, including foreign nationals, were used. They were paid a reward of 100,000 to 200,000 tenge for providing a single account.
The total turnover across these accounts exceeded 557 million tenge.
PROCEDURAL STATUS OF THE CASE
House arrest has been imposed as a preventive measure for two suspects. The criminal case has been sent to court.
Furthermore, during a search at the organiser's place of residence, narcotic substances were discovered and seized.
WHAT LOSSES THE GAME PARTICIPANTS SUFFERED
According to the FMA, in some cases, gambling participants suffered financial losses of up to 30 million tenge.
The agency noted that the lack of verification and free access to such platforms increases the risk of users becoming involved in gambling practices that lead to financial losses.