TLDR German investigators raided eleven properties across Frankfurt and the Rhine-Main region The suspected network is believed to have handled more than €5.8 billion in stakes between mid-2021 and the end of 2023 Authorities seized assets worth about €82 million, including luxury cars Tax losses for 2024 alone are estimated at €77.6 million Industry groups are calling for tougher enforcement and a single nationwide licensing system
German investigators have broken up a suspected illegal online betting operation worth billions of euros. The case is being called one of the largest of its kind uncovered in the country.
Authorities searched eleven properties across Frankfurt and the wider Rhine-Main region this week. The raids followed more than three years of undercover investigation work.
Investigators also carried out one arrest warrant as part of the operation. Prosecutors in Frankfurt say five suspects ran commercial betting services without holding a license.
Officials believe the network handled more than €5.8 billion in stakes between mid-2021 and the end of 2023. Tax losses linked to the operation for 2024 alone are expected to reach around €77.6 million.
Assets Seized During the Raids
More than 100 officers took part in the operation. They worked alongside the tax investigation unit and the State Office for Combating Financial Crime in North Rhine-Westphalia.
Local police also joined the search. Investigators seized assets worth roughly €82 million, including luxury cars and multiple bank accounts.
The scale of the seizure has drawn attention from gambling industry groups across the country. Several organizations say the case shows how deep illegal betting has spread.
Industry Groups React
The German Online Casino Association welcomed the raid. But it also warned that the case points to a much larger problem in the market.
The group said figures from the investigation do not match