Bavaria’s government reported 1,185 investigations into suspected illegal gambling in 2024 in its response to a parliamentary question. The total was more than 50% above the 762 cases reported in 2023; the Green Party called for stronger enforcement and prevention measures.
The reported rise in suspected cases and calls for more enforcement may affect regulatory priorities in Bavaria.
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Berlin authorities seized more than 70 suspected illegal gambling machines during a coordinated operation, reportedly. Berlin Justice Senator Felor Badenberg said tackling organised crime and illegal gambling was a high priority, while experts cited divided responsibilities among agencies as an obstacle to investigations. The report said the Berlin state criminal police agency recovered about €500,000 in cash from machines annually.
German investigators carried out a coordinated operation targeting suspected illegal gambling at a nail salon and a former restaurant, reportedly. Officers initially could not enter the salon and called a locksmith; at the second location, they found slot machines. The report also describes people fleeing from a neighbouring flat that was not on the operation’s list.
Saarland’s State Criminal Police Office and other authorities searched venues and private premises in Grossrosseln-Nassweiler on 10 July 2025 as part of an operation targeting suspected illegal gambling. Saarbrücken prosecutors are investigating suspected unauthorised gambling; initial findings indicate that unlawful cash-prize gaming machines were installed and offered for play.
Rio de Janeiro’s Consumer Police Department is leading 15 investigations into suspected manipulation of football matches across series A, B, C and D, delegate Wellington Vieira said. The work involves the Civil Police, Public Ministry and state football federation, with integrity alerts from betting-monitoring companies forwarded for investigation.
Macau police detained two mainland Chinese men in separate casino operations on 5 July over suspected remote betting, according to the report. Police seized chips and vouchers valued at more than HKD 97,000 and electronic equipment; authorities said they had not verified a link between the cases, which were referred to prosecutors.