Japan is intensifying its efforts to combat online gambling as recent arrests shed light on activities involving a payment systems company. Two men have been apprehended for their alleged involvement in “assisting habitual gambling” through their roles at the payment systems firm.
Details of the Arrests
The individuals under arrest include a businessman responsible for managing payments to and from overseas online casinos for approximately 42,000 customers in Japan. Another individual is said to have developed the software utilized in these transactions.
Allegations and Transactions
The Metropolitan Police Department has alleged that between July 2021 and July 2022, the accused men processed deposits amounting to JPY 50 billion (US$335 million) from local customers. In return for these services, they purportedly received JPY 2.1 billion (US$14.1 million) in fees from the casino operators.
Charges and Proxy Services
The charges against the company assert that it acted as a proxy for these online casinos, connecting them to customers and facilitating gambling activities. The police contend that these actions amount to aiding and abetting habitual gambling.
Unusual Arrests
The arrest of an online casino payment processor is considered uncommon, marking a significant move in Japan’s crackdown on online gambling.
Additional Referrals
In addition to the two arrests, five more individuals aged between 31 and 53 have been referred to the Tokyo District Public Prosecutors Office on similar charges, expanding the scope of the investigation.