The Kansspelautoriteit, the Dutch Gaming Authority (KSA), has published a new enforcement policy.
As part of the Gambling Act (Wok), the KSA is tasked with tackling illegal gambling, both online and in land-based venues within the Netherlands.
In the report, the KSA explains that: “The KSA wants to become more visible in the physical domain and make a greater contribution to combating the supply of physically illegal games of chance.
“The KSA does this because playing safely in illegal games of chance is not guaranteed.
“Gambling addiction is also lurking because there is no supervision of possible excessive gambling and there is the additional risk of money laundering.”
As part of this, the KSA works regularly with Regional Information and Expertise Centers (RIECs), which have the main task of uncovering subversive crime.
The document details that this partnership will continue, although the KSA will now refer specific cases to RIECs, such as requests for physical support during enforcement actions, including raids and arrests.
The KSA also emphasises that it has the authority to initiate investigations at any time, as well as confiscate gaming machines.
This is part of the initiative to rebrand the KSA as an independent entity that can act proactively to tackle illegal gambling.
An independent investigation by the KSA can also be triggered if there is evidence of minors or young adults being involved, the offence occurs over multiple locations, there have been multiple complaints, recidivism or if the illegal gambling could be seen as highly addictive.
In addition, the Authority has stated that it can enforce fines, administrative enforcement orders and penalties, all through the Betting and Gaming Act.
The new policies went live on 1 December 2023.
