In October 2023, the prosecution of the Nîmes judicial court opened a preliminary investigation into prohibited lotteries, revealing massive exploitation of these online games throughout France.
This operation, led by the Central Racing and Games Service of the national direction of the judicial police, made it possible to dismantle a family organization at the head of this network.
Investigations showed that five main suspects had been organizing weekly online lottos for several years, in total violation of gaming legislation. Between 2021 and 2023, these illicit activities generated revenues exceeding 11 million euros.
On Tuesday June 19, 2024, thanks to the collaboration of Perpignan customs (ONAF), the economic investigation brigade and the judicial police services of Nîmes, Marseille and Montpellier, arrests and searches were carried out. This operation made it possible to seize 1.6 million euros, ten vehicles as well as the communication equipment of the illegal lottery production studios.
The investigation is currently continuing to identify the numerous associations victims of this illegal gambling offer, finalize the asset seizures and establish the responsibilities of the various actors involved.
Also read: Nîmes: the Croix de Fer casino gets a makeover after a scandal linked to the wearing of the veil – Miscellaneous facts (lereveildumidi.fr)
