News

Europe’s Match-fixing Problem Facilitates Global Money Laundering: Europol

By Koos Couvée

Asian, Russian and European crime syndicates "extensively" launder illicit funds through large scale match-fixing operations in Europe, either by abusing regulated betting operators or taking direct ownership of betting firms, the EU's law enforcement agency has warned. In a 24-page report on the growing problem of sports corruption, Europol found that global illicit networks represent the "engine" behind match fixing in Europe and often use those very same matches they have corrupted to launder proceeds from drug trafficking, extortion and other crimes. "Match-fixing, fueled by illegal betting, is perceived by criminals as a high-profit and relatively low-risk crime," the agency...

TO READ THE FULL STORY