Agents of the National Police assigned to the Junta de Andalucía have dismantled an illegal bingo operation in a bar in Torremolinos. Customers accessed the game via QR codes and could win trips and money.
The National Police Unit assigned to the Junta de Andalucía has put an end to a clandestine gaming activity that was held every Sunday in a hospitality establishment in Torremolinos. According to the investigation, more than 40 people participated in the bingo games, which were organized without the necessary administrative authorization.
A hybrid system of physical cards and mobile
The agents confirmed that the venue offered bingo cards to customers upon paying for their drinks. The drawn numbers were displayed on a television screen installed inside the bar, and participants could play with both traditional cards and through an online application.
To access the digital platform, customers scanned a QR code with their mobile phones and marked the numbers as they appeared on the screen. Among the prizes offered were trips and varying amounts of cash.
Police surveillance and seized materials
The investigators established a surveillance operation in the vicinity of the venue to verify the functioning of the activity. During the intervention, the agents confirmed that the games were held every Sunday and that the bingo served as a draw to attract customers and increase the business's income.
The assigned police believe that this practice created an unfair advantage over other establishments that do comply with the licenses and controls required by regulations. The agents seized the objects and materials used to organize the bingo games.
Sanctioning file underway
The National Police Unit prepared the corresponding report and made a proposal for a sanction for the alleged celebration of illegal gaming. Both the police report and the seized effects have been sent to the Public Games and Entertainment Service of the Junta de Andalucía in Málaga, the competent body to continue processing the sanctioning file.
For the residents of Torremolinos, this operation is a relief, as the illegal bingo operated unchecked and could lead to gambling problems or scams. The police remind that gaming must take place in authorized establishments and under the supervision of the authorities.
The Andalusian regulations establish fines of up to 600,000 euros for such infractions, although the final amount will depend on the severity of the facts. The responsible parties of the venue now face an administrative procedure that could result in the closure of the business.
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