The Dutch Gaming Authority, known as Kansspelautoriteit (KSA), has unveiled a comprehensive enforcement policy as part of the Gambling Act (Wok). Tasked with addressing illegal gambling activities, both online and in physical establishments across the Netherlands, the KSA aims to enhance visibility and actively contribute to eradicating the supply of illegal games of chance. The new policies, effective from December 1, 2023, reflect a proactive approach, emphasizing the need for a safer gambling environment and addressing concerns related to addiction and money laundering risks associated with unregulated gambling.
Increased Visibility in the Physical Domain:
The KSA seeks to enhance its presence in the physical domain to combat the supply of physically illegal games of chance. This move is driven by the imperative to ensure safe and supervised gambling, reducing the risks associated with unregulated activities. The KSA emphasizes its commitment to actively address challenges posed by physically illegal gambling operations.
Collaboration with Regional Information and Expertise Centers (RIECs):
The KSA collaborates with RIECs to uncover subversive crime associated with illegal gambling. While this partnership continues, the KSA will now specifically refer cases to RIECs, such as requests for physical support during enforcement actions, including raids and arrests. This strategic collaboration enhances the KSA’s capabilities in combating illegal gambling activities.
Authority to Initiate Investigations:
The KSA asserts its authority to initiate investigations at any time, demonstrating its proactive stance in addressing illegal gambling. This includes the power to confiscate gaming machines, reinforcing the KSA’s commitment to taking decisive actions against unregulated gambling operations.
Independent Investigations Triggered by Specific Criteria:
Independent investigations by the KSA can be triggered based on specific criteria, such as evidence of involvement of minors or young adults, offenses occurring across multiple locations, multiple complaints, recidivism, or cases where the illegal gambling is deemed highly addictive. This tailored approach ensures that investigations are initiated based on the severity and nature of the offenses.
Enforcement Measures and Penalties:
The KSA outlines its authority to enforce fines, administrative enforcement orders, and penalties, all governed by the Betting and Gaming Act. These measures provide the KSA with a comprehensive toolkit to address a spectrum of offenses associated with illegal gambling.
The KSA’s implementation of robust enforcement policies signals a proactive and resolute approach in combatting illegal gambling within the Netherlands. By actively engaging in the physical domain, collaborating with RIECs, and emphasizing its authority to initiate investigations and enforce penalties, the KSA positions itself as a vigilant regulator dedicated to ensuring a secure and supervised gambling environment. The enforcement policies underscore the commitment to tackling issues of addiction, money laundering, and other risks associated with unregulated gambling, contributing to a safer and more transparent gambling landscape in the Netherlands.