TLDR Police in China have shut down multiple illegal gambling networks in several provinces linked to the 2026 FIFA World Cup In Xi’an, 7 suspects were arrested after running an online betting platform with transactions exceeding 100,000 yuan ($14,770) A gang in Guangxi was dismantled for flooding social media with gambling ads since May 2026 In Liaoning, a suspect used illegal apps and WeChat to take bets on match outcomes and scores China’s Ministry of Public Security warned citizens before the tournament that no online platform is authorized to sell lottery tickets
China’s police have broken up several illegal gambling networks operating across the country during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Cases have been reported in at least three provinces, with suspects arrested or detained for running betting platforms, promoting gambling websites, and taking wagers on match results.
In Xi’an, Shaanxi Province, police arrested seven people for running an online gambling platform tied to World Cup matches. The group set up betting schemes and earned money through commissions. Total transactions on the platform passed 100,000 yuan, which is around $14,770.
Investigators worked for 19 straight hours before all seven suspects confessed. They were placed in criminal detention on suspicion of running an illegal gambling business.
Social Media Used to Draw in Bettors
In Yulin, Guangxi, police broke up a group that focused on promoting illegal gambling sites. The group had been running gambling ads on social media since May 2026, directing users to illegal betting websites linked to the World Cup.
The case was flagged by the Ministry of Public Security’s cybersecurity bureau. Authorities said the group used the tournament’s popularity to push users toward unlicensed platforms.
On June 12, the opening day of the World Cup, police in Liaoyang, Liaoning Province, shut down another illegal betting