Authorities have charged a Christchurch man and company with gambling offenses in New Zealand. This is after allegedly generating more than $11 million in illegal online lotteries.
Recently, the defendants appeared in Christchurch District Court. They were charged with conducting illegal gambling, promoting illegal gambling, and making a financial gain from illegal gambling under the Gambling Act 2003.
The defendants allegedly benefited personally from selling illegal lotteries through online platforms, offering prizes like high-value cars, boats, caravans, cash, and a freehold house.
The illegal lottery allegedly generated $11,125,466.65 in a little over a year.
Under the Act, only a not-for-profit society can conduct gambling with prizes exceeding $5000 for authorized purposes. It also required a class 3 gambling license to ensure the integrity of the operation and protection of participants.
The New Zealand Police have also lodged proceedings in the High Court following a referral from DIA. This is against the defendants under the Criminal Proceeds (Recovery) Act 2009.
Vicki Scott, Department of Internal Affairs gambling director said their strict licensing requirements are there for a reason. They will not hesitate to respond firmly when they see instances of illegal gambling like an unlicensed online lotteries. They have no tolerance for those who seek to profit by bypassing the rules.
