In a move similar to the American UIGEA, the Dutch government has asked for assistance from banks in stopping financial transactions to online gaming sites
Monday 12th May 2008
According to news reports from Reuters this weekend, the Dutch Ministry of Justice has asked banks to stop providing financial transactions to online gaming sites in a move similar to the Unlawful Internet Gaming Enforcement Act in the US.
Upto 50 online sites have been listed as ones which Dutch banks have been requested to stop transferring monies to. A spokesperson confirmed to Reuters that Unibet and Oranje Casino were two of the companies which had been listed, adding “It is illegal to offer gambling services in the Netherlands without a permit. These companies know they break the law”.
It is also reported that dossiers will be compiled on companies on the list, which will be passed onto prosecutors to consider possible legal action.
This stance has led to Holland coming under close scrutiny from the European Union, and this move will of course bring more attention to Brussels.
