In Dubai, 26 individuals were apprehended for operating an unauthorized online gambling platform. The arrests were executed by the crime investigation unit of the Gangwon Provincial Police Agency. At the time, the site’s value had exceeded KRW 120 billion ($81 billion). Those detained face charges of “organizing, joining, and operating a criminal organization and opening gambling spaces.” Among the 26, ten individuals, including a 32-year-old identified as the leader, have been further detained. A police official stated, “We have secured the pre-indictment seizure and preservation of KRW 6.086 billion in criminal proceeds from the mastermind and key executives.”
**Bringing Them Down**
The Korea Sports Promotion Foundation alerted authorities to the gang’s activities, leading to an investigation of the illegal sites. After a 10-month probe, law enforcement apprehended those running the operation.
**Establishing the Foundations**
In 2021, the gang used a “shell company” in Dubai to operate two illegal gambling sites over four years. They likely chose the UAE to exploit challenges in inter-agency cooperation and ease money laundering in a global financial hub.
**The Hierarchy**
The organization had a hierarchical structure granting higher-ranked members greater authority. By confiscating passports, team leaders made returning to South Korea impossible for lower-ranked members. Using Telegram for secure communication, the gang relayed orders risk-free. Platforms like YouTube and social media were used to boost site visibility. They attracted individuals with promises of “High Returns,” requiring them to travel to Dubai, obtain work visas, and be registered as employees of UAE-based corporations.
- SCCG Management. The Gambling Industry’s Global Connector. Access Here.
- Source: SCCGManagement.com