Criminal Leader of Illegal Casino Arrested in Odessa Region
In the Odessa region, law enforcement has apprehended the notorious leader of an illegal casino, referred to as the "watcher of Izmail." Alongside him, three members of his group were also arrested, responsible for running illegal gaming establishments. All have been charged. Investigators found that the 31-year-old, holding sway among criminals, controlled local gangs and managed a collective fund. To increase illegal profits, he established an underground casino.
He assigned three of his subordinates to oversee the operations within the casino. Despite their attempts at secrecy, police documented their illegal activities.
On August 22, operatives from the Strategic Investigations Department, in collaboration with detectives from the Economic Security Bureau in the Odessa region and with the support of special forces, arrested the "watcher" and his accomplices, shutting down the illegal casino. Authorities seized over $22,000, €5,850, 73,000 UAH, gaming chips, notebooks with notes, playing cards, and more. The "watcher" faces charges under part 1 of article 255-1 (spreading criminal influence) and part 2 of article 203-2 (illegal organization of gambling activities) of the Criminal Code of Ukraine. His accomplices are charged under part 2 of article 203-2 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine. He has been remanded in custody without bail, while the situation regarding the others is under review for preventive measures. The Odessa regional prosecutor's office is overseeing the proceedings.
Department of Strategic Investigations of the National Police of Ukraine
