Belarusian authorities have uncovered a large-scale match-fixing scheme allegedly connected to 1xBet, a restricted betting operator. The scheme involved staged tennis and basketball matches broadcast online with pre-determined outcomes.
According to the organized crime unit of the Interior Ministry, the raid was part of a larger investigation. The group had been running scripted sports events for online betting purposes. Ordering players, as well as officials to line up against the wall before making arrests, officers entered the venue mid-broadcast.
Investigators detained 19 people and believe the network involves around 200 participants.
Organizers pre-arranged matches by signaling athletes on when and to whom to concede points, ensuring betting profits from fixed outcomes. They usually paid players about 100 Belarusian roubles, or roughly $30 per match. One person could play for different teams under numerous identities, and in some cases also act as referee.
The scheme operated since the COVID-19 period. Sources say they used it to stream content for 1xBet, which is banned in Belarus and many other countries. To avoid detection, organizers rented sports facilities mostly at night. Since last year, sports events in Belarus have required state accreditation. The organizers did not have it, making their use of venues unlawful.
Commenting on the case, Anastasia Marinina, secretary-general of the Belarusian Basketball Federation, emphasized that FIBA rules strictly prohibit athletes and coaches from participating in betting activities. She said that this leads to disqualification for a minimum of two years, and in some cases, for life.
If convicted, those charged face up to 12 years in prison. Authorities added that Russian law enforcement is also seeking some of the alleged organizers.
