Illegal poker tournaments dismantled by the Ksa
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10 Mar 2025 •
Reading time: 2 minutes The Kansspelautoriteit (Ksa), the Dutch gambling regulator, has recently stepped up its efforts to combat illegal gambling and associated subversive crime. In collaboration with the police and municipalities, the Ksa has put an end to a number of illegal poker tournaments.
40,000 seized in illegal poker tournaments
One of the Ksa’s 2025 priorities is the fight against illegal gambling and corruption. During the last quarter of 2024, the Ksa joined forces with the police and the municipalities of Amsterdam, Asten, The Hague, Rotterdam and Tilburg. Their aim? To put an end to illegal poker tournaments.
These interventions led to the discovery of tens of thousands of euros in cash. In one establishment, they seized a record €40,000. Another was permanently closed by order of the local council.
These tournaments, organised without authorisation, are a criminal offence. Criminals use legal businesses (such as restaurants and cafés) or private citizens for criminal activities. They are often used to launder money. In addition, gamblers taking part in these events expose themselves to increased risks of gambling addiction, due to the lack of prevention and control measures.
Severe penalties
Earlier this year, the Ksa imposed a fine of almost €110,000 on an unlicensed poker organiser, but this is not the only sanction that has already been imposed in 2025.
Just a few days ago, Sarah Eternal S.R.L. was fined €900,000 for offering unlicensed online gambling to Dutch players via the Casino Sky website.
This action underlines the Ksa’s determination to maintain the integrity of the gambling market and to protect consumers from unlicensed operators.
Strategy 2025: Ksa priorities
For the year 2025, the Ksa has defined several priorities in its supervision agenda. These include the protection of minors and young adults, the enforcement of operators’ duty of care, the fight against illegal offers and compliance with advertising rules.
To this end, the Ksa does not hesitate to adopt a proactive approach. It works closely with partners such as the police and municipalities to identify and dismantle illegal operations. This approach aims to strengthen player protection and ensure a safe and fair gaming environment.