British watchdog has ‘commenced a review’ of operator behind ParadiseBet.it amid allegations of ties to organised crime in Puglia.
Tuesday 29th December 2009
In the UK, the Gambling Commission watchdog has suspended its license for online gambling firm Paradise Bet Limited while a review of the business is undertaken amid allegations of mafia involvement in Italy.
Operator of ParadiseBet.it, Paradise Bet recently had its assets frozen by authorities in Italy as part of an ongoing police operation into organised crime in the region of Puglia that has seen 74 people arrested.
The three-year operation by Italian police is looking into allegations that the area’s Parisi clan is responsible for charges of attempted murder, drug trafficking, loan-sharking, interfering with the bidding process for public contracts and money laundering. Authorities have so far arrested numerous local politicians and businessman in the southern Italian city of Bari along with the head of the Parisi clan, Savino Parisi.
Hounslow-based Paradise Bet was granted a casino and general betting licence in April of 2007 and lists Bari as the site of its operating office for ParadiseBet.it.
“The Gambling Commission can confirm that it has commenced a review under section 116 of the Gambling Act 2005 and has decided to suspend Operating Licence No 3371 (Paradise Bet Limited) whilst that review takes place,” read a statement from the Commission.
“The suspension is part of an ongoing Commission investigation. It is an interim measure, the need for which will be kept under review whilst the investigation takes place. The Commission will make no further comment until the investigation is complete.”
