Japanese authorities are strengthening their campaign against illegal crypto gambling among local players, particularly those registered in offshore licensed casinos.
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According to multiple sources, local police have reportedly arrested local players of offshore casinos using a crypto tracking tool. The Asahi Shimbun and Nikkei report that authorities referred 10 people in Chiba and Tokyo Prefecture to the prosecutors on allegations of gambling at offshore casinos.
Police have identified around 130 players nationwide, which shall face inquiries.
This is the first time that the Japanese authorities have used a crypto-tracking tool in their operations against online gambling. While Japan allows regulated gambling, unauthorized gambling, particularly in unlicensed offshore casinos, is strictly prohibited.
Japan Tries A Crypto ‘Tracking Tool’ For The First Time
Local police are now actively using a cryptocurrency tracking tool to find locals who regularly play at offshore casinos. On November 26th, the Security Division of the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department referred 10 locals to the prosecutor’s office for investigation.
Sportsbet.io is among sites reportedly used by individuals referred to the prosecutor’s office. Image grab from Sportsbet.io.
Since the start of the police operations, the authorities have already referred 57 players, and they’re looking at around 130 more players.
These arrests come as many locals are struggling under the pressure of a falling economy. Police have tracked dozens of players from 24 prefectures, and many of them have been imprisoned for using their money voluntarily on their favorite casino games.
The police report identified popular offshore casinos like BitCasino, Sportsbet.io, and Vera & John as the popular betting sites frequented by the players.
As of today, the market cap of cryptocurrencies reached $3.25 trillion. Chart: TradingView
Japanese Players Wagered Crypto On Popular Slots, Table Games
According to reports, the players used cryptocurrencies to place bets on slot machines and popular table games. The police added that all players admitted to the illegal activity. All three sites are easily accessible from Japan through the players’ mobile phones and personal computers.
Image: casinoonlinebeton.com
The players’ ages range from 20 to 60, and the list includes a public servant, company employees, and even a homemaker.
The police also reported that all players lost money in these popular offshore casinos. One player reportedly lost 30 million yen or $194,000.
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Public Questions The Authorities’ Crackdown On Gambling
The Japanese police’s campaign on illegal gambling has generated mixed reactions from the general public. As some of the country’s elderly are struggling to make ends meet, many are wondering if the latest crackdown on casino players is worth it.
Featured image from Cult MTL, chart from TradingView