Europol Leads Cross Border Action on Illegal Gambling Network

Europol coordinated a major enforcement action with police teams in Sweden and Spain to confront a violent network tied to illegal gambling, money laundering, and other criminal activity across the Nordic region. The operation targeted locations connected to the group and produced arrests, seizures, and new intelligence for ongoing investigations.

Good to Know

• Raids occurred on 28–29 November in Sweden and Spain
• Illegal gambling turnover estimated at €20,000,000, equal to about $23,200,000
• Five suspects were taken into custody

Europol Coordinates Cross-Border Action Against Illegal Gambling Network

Europol confirmed that the enforcement effort focused on a network active in the Stockholm area, where the group reportedly operated illegal gambling hubs and managed large volumes of criminal proceeds. Investigators said the network also facilitated laundering services for outside criminal groups and held ties to drug trafficking across Sweden and the broader Nordic region.

The joint raids involved nearly 150 officers who searched six sites in Sweden and two locations in Murcia, Spain. Authorities detained three suspects in Sweden and two in Spain. Police recovered valuable assets worth several hundred thousand euros, including luxury watches and cash.

A search of one Swedish property revealed an operational illegal gambling venue. Inside, officers found drugs prepared for resale and indicators of possible human trafficking. Europol said these discoveries reflect the network pattern of intimidation and violence used to maintain control over illegal gambling markets and enforce debts.

The agency explained:

“The suspects form the core of a local criminal network known for its use of violence and intimidation, allowing the group to secure revenues, enforce debts and control sections of the illegal gambling market in the Stockholm area. By offering services to other criminals, the group operated as a key facilitator within the wider criminal environment.”

Europol noted that the raid uncovered evidence of money laundering arrangements that benefited both the targeted group and its associated criminal contacts. The illegal gambling operation alone generated an estimated €20,000,000 in annual turnover.

The action forms part of a broader multi-agency effort to confront networks that maintain international links while harming local communities. Europol said:

“Europol plays a central role in this approach by linking international intelligence with local enforcement actions. By connecting national authorities across borders, Europol ensures that information collected in one jurisdiction can be turned into operational impact in another – including on the streets of Stockholm.”

FAQ

Where did the coordinated action take place?

Six sites in Sweden and two locations in Murcia, Spain.

How many suspects were arrested?

Five individuals were taken into custody.

What was the scale of the illegal gambling activity?

Annual turnover is estimated at €20,000,000, equal to about $23,200,000.

What other crimes were linked to the network?

Money laundering, drug trafficking activity, and indicators of human trafficking.

Why is Europol involved in these investigations?

Europol supports cross-border intelligence sharing and operational coordination for actions against organised criminal networks.

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