OVER 100 GAMING machines have been seized by police in Northern Ireland, along with more than £500,000, during an operation in Belfast and Lisburn.
Detectives from the Organised Crime Branch investigating laundering and illegal gambling seized the gaming machines and three casino roulette machines, along with around £200,000 in cash.
The roulette machines are worth an estimated £100,000 each.
Arrests
A 63-year-old man from Lurgan was arrested on suspicion of managing and organising illegal gambling and money laundering.
He was later released on bailed, but ordered to attend Musgrave police station in Belfast on 11 March.
In addition, officers from Home Office Immigration Enforcement arrested a man in his 40s on suspicion of an immigration offence.
Detective Superintendent Andrea McMullan, from Organised Crime Branch said it is believed that the casino and high stake gambling machines were being operated in premises in breach of the relevant licences.
In addition to the substantial amount of cash seized, we believe the three roulette machines have a value of £100,000 each. We seized a further 130 smaller gaming machines which are worth around £1,000 each.
Gambling
The investigation also involved detectives and experts from the Gambling Commission UK.
The police said it worked with District policing colleagues and partners in the Gambling Commission and Immigration Enforcement to stop what it believes were premises being used for illegal gambling and money laundering.
“This multi-agency operation should serve as a clear warning to those who think they can operate outside the law that police are determined they will not succeed. Our enquiries are continuing.”
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