Major police operation targeting an illegal gambling network is underway across Greece since early Tuesday, March 10, 2026. So far, 17 people have been arrested, and investigations continue into additional suspects across Athens, Thessaloniki, Patras, and Agrinio.
Years-Long Operation Through Unlicensed Platforms
According to preliminary findings, the network operated for the past eight years, organizing and running illegal games of chance via unlicensed online platforms. Its activities spanned 37 physical locations—including betting shops and internet cafes—many disguised as legitimate businesses.
Massive Profits and Fraudulent Practices
Authorities estimate the group generated over €16 million in illicit profits. In addition to running unauthorized gambling operations, the suspects allegedly defrauded players and laundered proceeds from criminal activity—including personal data breaches—through these venues.
Locations Under Investigation
The 37 premises identified so far are spread across multiple municipalities in Attica, with concentrations in central Athens (including Omonia, Exarchia, Kypseli, and Agios Panteleimon), Zografou, Peristeri, Alimos, Kallithea, Nikaia, Keratsini, Piraeus, Anavyssos, Chalandri, and Loutraki in Corinthia. Additional sites include one in Patras and another in Thessaloniki, plus an unnamed address in Agrinio.
Several of the listed addresses are marked as ‘closed’, indicating prior suspicion or temporary shutdowns ahead of the operation.