By order of Mayor Ahmed Marcouch, as of Tuesday, February 17, the operating and alcohol licenses of a hospitality venue on Lange Wal have been revoked, as well as the permit for placing gaming machines. This means the entrepreneur must immediately cease and keep ceased the operation of the hospitality business. The decision was made based on the Bibob Act.
At the hospitality venue in question, a raid was conducted by the police in cooperation with the gambling authority on the night of January 26 to 27. During this raid, 21 people were arrested – including the owner of the establishment – on suspicion of participating in illegal gambling, as described in the Gambling Act. A large amount of cash was also found. Prior to this raid, a Bibob investigation into the business was already underway.
Long-standing signals
Mayor Marcouch explains: ‘Signals about illegal gambling have been received at this venue over a long period, such as keeping the establishment open well past closing time and arranging the premises so that gambling activities are not visible from outside. Additionally, the police have received several reports about this establishment.’
Vulnerable sector
He continues: ‘Illegal gambling is undermining crime, especially in a vulnerable sector like hospitality. We do not allow this in our city. Hospitality venues should be places of meeting and trust, not a cover for illegal activities. That is why we intervene, to protect honest entrepreneurs and keep our neighborhoods safe for residents and children. Facilitating illegal gambling in a hospitality business puts public order under pressure. There is then no addiction prevention, consumer protection, or correct tax payment. Moreover, illegal gambling activities often attract crime because of the possibility of money laundering. This disrupts safety and livability in our neighborhoods due to the possible influx of unwanted and nuisance-causing persons.’
(Illegal) gambling very problematic
Marcouch concludes: ‘Let’s not beat around the bush: gambling is a big problem and can cause deep harm to families and neighbors. Money intended for daily life disappears, debts pile up, and pressure on families increases. Illegal gambling is even much worse than legal gambling. If you cannot pay your debts in an illegal gambling house, it can lead to major problems. With the use of the Bibob Act and the actions of the police and gambling authority, we protect our city against misuse of licenses and prevent crime from hiding behind this facade.’
The entrepreneur of the establishment in question has six weeks to appeal the mayor’s decision.
Suspicions of illegal gambling? Report it!
Are there signs of illegal gambling in your neighborhood? Then report them, even if you have doubts! Reports are investigated, premises visited, and observations made. What you see or hear in your neighborhood can make a difference. You can report to the police via 0900 – 8844 and to Report Crime Anonymously via 0800 – 7000.