Japanese authorities are strengthening their campaign against illegal cryptocurrency gambling among local players, especially those registered at licensed offshore casinos.
According to multiple sources, the local police reported Capture local players From offshore casinos using a crypto tracker. The Asahi Shimbun and Nikkei reported that authorities referred 10 people in Chiba and Tokyo Prefecture to prosecutors on charges of gambling at offshore casinos.
Police have identified about 130 players nationwide, and they will be subject to investigation.
This is the first time that Japanese authorities have used a cryptocurrency tracking tool in their operations against online gambling. While Japan allows regulated gambling, unauthorized gambling, especially at unlicensed offshore casinos, is strictly prohibited.
Japan is trying a cryptocurrency “tracker” for the first time
Local police are now actively using it Cryptocurrency A tracking tool to find locals who regularly play at offshore casinos. On November 26, the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department’s Security Division referred 10 local residents to the public prosecutor’s office for investigation.
Sportsbet.io is among sites reportedly used by individuals referred to the prosecutor’s office. Image grab from Sportsbet.io.
Since the start of police operations, the authorities have already referred 57 players, and are looking for about 130 more.
These arrests come at a time when many local residents are suffering under the pressure of the deteriorating economy. Police have tracked down dozens of players from 24 provinces, and many of them have been jailed for willingly using their money in their favorite casino games.
The police report identified popular offshore casinos such as BitCasino, Sportsbet.io and Vera & John as popular betting sites frequented by players.
As of today, the market cap of cryptocurrencies reached $3.25 trillion. Chart: TradingView
Japanese players bet on cryptocurrencies in popular slot machines and table games
According to reports, players have used cryptocurrencies to bet on popular slot machines and table games. Police added that all players admitted to the illegal activity. All three locations can be easily accessed from Japan via players’ mobile phones and PCs.
Image: casinoonlinebeton.com
The ages of the players range from 20 to 60 years, and the list includes a government employee, company employees, and even a housewife.
The police also reported that all players lost money at these popular offshore casinos. One player reportedly lost 30 million yen, or $194,000.
General questions Authorities crackdown on gambling
Japanese police’s crackdown on illegal gambling has drawn mixed reactions from the general public. While some of the country’s seniors struggle to make ends meet, many are wondering if the latest crackdown on casino players is worth it.
Featured image from Cult MTL, chart from TradingView