These suspects are believed to have facilitated the transfer of funds to overseas operators of online casinos, enabling customers to place bets using their smartphones and other electronic devices. This marks the first instance in Japan where settlement agents have been apprehended for their alleged involvement in assisting individuals in betting at cyber casinos.
According to the Tokyo Metropolitan Police, the suspects repeatedly transferred funds to overseas casino operators on behalf of 18 customers in Japan who engaged in online betting between July 2021 and July 2022. The suspects reportedly established an online payment service around 2020 and proceeded to send money from Japan to three cyber casinos with whom they had formed partnerships.
Investigations have revealed that approximately 42,000 individuals are registered in the customer database of these agents. It is estimated that by July of last year, when their services were suspended, the agents had received deposits amounting to hundreds of millions of dollars. Additionally, they allegedly earned over 14 million dollars in commissions from the casinos.
At this stage, it remains unclear whether the suspects have admitted to the charges brought against them. Furthermore, the police have submitted documents to prosecutors regarding the 18 customers, who are also suspected of engaging in illegal gambling activities.
In conclusion, the Japanese police have taken decisive action against payment agents involved in facilitating online gambling within the country. These arrests mark a significant step in combating illegal online betting and ensuring the integrity of Japan's gambling regulations.