Tokyo – In a significant crackdown on illegal online gambling, the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department has raided a physical gambling den operating under the guise of an online casino in the bustling Kabukicho district of Shinjuku. The operation resulted in the arrest of five employees and seven customers, signaling a firm stance against the proliferation of illicit gambling activities in the city.
The establishment, known as RIZIN, allegedly allowed customers to access overseas gambling websites and participate in online betting activities. Acting on suspicion of facilitating gambling, police officers stormed the premises late on June 25th, apprehending five employees, including the 41-year-old manager, Yasuhiro Yamaoka, and others ranging in age from 24 to 42.
According to police reports, customers utilized computers within the den to access overseas gambling sites, placing bets on games such as Baccarat. All five arrested employees have reportedly admitted to the charges during interrogation. In addition to the employees, police also arrested seven customers found on the premises, ranging in age from 20 to 89.
The raid uncovered over 20 computers and a trove of information believed to belong to more than 5,000 potential customers. Authorities are currently conducting a thorough investigation into the operation’s scope, management structure, and the extent of its illegal activities.
This bust highlights the ongoing efforts of the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department to combat illegal gambling, which often leads to other forms of criminal activity. The investigation is expected to shed light on the intricate network of online gambling operations and potentially lead to further arrests and dismantling of similar establishments.
Conclusion:
The successful raid on RIZIN serves as a stark warning to those involved in illegal online gambling activities in Tokyo. The police’s swift action demonstrates their commitment to upholding the law and protecting citizens from the dangers associated with illicit gambling. Further investigations and prosecutions are expected to follow, sending a clear message that such activities will not be tolerated. The fight against illegal online gambling is a continuous process, and law enforcement agencies must remain vigilant in adapting to the evolving methods employed by these criminal enterprises.
References:
- NHK World News. (2025, June 27). 東京警視庁捣毁一个经营非法线上赌博的实体赌场 [Tokyo police arrest 12 over online casino gambling at shop]. Retrieved from https://www3.nhk.or.jp//nhkworld/zh/news/20250627_02/
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