Gyeongnam Police Raid Illegal Casino Gambling Site
Philippines-Based Gambling Ring Busted, Two Leaders Arrested
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SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — Authorities in South Korea have dismantled a major illegal online gambling operation based in the Philippines, arresting 18 individuals and apprehending two key leaders of the institution. The Gyeongnam Police Agency’s Cyber Crime Examination Unit announced the arrests on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, following a lengthy investigation.
250 billion Won in Gambling Funds Seized
The gambling ring reportedly amassed 250 billion won (approximately $190 million USD) in gambling funds over a 20-month period, from September 2022 to May 2024. Investigators say the operation involved approximately 9,450 members.
Money Laundering Investigation Leads to Arrests
The investigation began while police were tracking money laundering accounts. According to authorities, ”Team Leader B,” 37, was apprehended first while in the Philippines. Afterward, other operators were encouraged to voluntarily return to South Korea. The organization’s leader, identified only as “A,” 41, was arrested upon arrival in the country after his passport was invalidated.
Investigative authorities have obtained a court order to seize and preserve 7.5 billion won (approximately $5.7 million USD) in illicit profits gained from operating the gambling websites, pending indictment.
Police Warn of Cyber Gambling Risks
Police are emphasizing the dangers associated with online gambling, cautioning individuals against being lured by advertisements promising high returns. A special crackdown on illegal cyber gambling is planned through Oct. 31, with the goal of bolstering cyber safety, officials said.
# Philippines-Based Gambling Ring Dismantled: Your Guide to the Recent Bust
This article provides a extensive overview of the recent bust of a major illegal online gambling operation based in the Philippines, offering clear answers to key questions regarding the case.
## What happened in the Philippines-based gambling ring bust?
Authorities in South Korea dismantled a substantial illegal online gambling operation based in the Philippines. This resulted in the arrest of 18 individuals and the apprehension of two key leaders. The Gyeongnam Police Agency’s Cyber Crime Examination Unit announced the arrests on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, following a detailed investigation.
## Where was the gambling ring based?
The illegal gambling operation was based in the Philippines.
## Who was involved in the gambling ring?
The investigation led to the arrest of 18 individuals. Two key leaders were also apprehended: “Team Leader B,” 37, and the organization’s leader, identified as “A,” 41. The operation included approximately 9,450 members.
## How much money was involved in the gambling ring?
The gambling ring reportedly amassed 250 billion won (approximately $190 million USD) in gambling funds.
## over what period did the gambling ring operate?
The illegal online gambling operation ran for 20 months, from September 2022 to May 2024.
## What led to the arrests in this case?
The arrests were a direct result of an investigation into money laundering accounts. The police were tracking these accounts, which led them to the core of the illegal gambling operation.
## Where were the leaders arrested?
“Team Leader B” was apprehended in the Philippines. The organization’s leader, “A,” was arrested upon arrival in south Korea after his passport was invalidated.
## What actions have the authorities taken regarding the funds?
Investigative authorities have obtained a court order to seize and preserve 7.5 billion won (approximately $5.7 million USD) in illicit profits gained from the operation, pending indictment.
## What are the police warning individuals about?
police are warning individuals about the dangers of online gambling, particularly cautioning them against being lured by advertisements promising high returns.
## What measures are being taken to address cyber gambling?
A special crackdown on illegal cyber gambling is planned through October 31st. The goal is to bolster cyber safety.
## Could you summarize the key details of this case?
Here’s a summary of the key facts in a table:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Location of Operation | Philippines |
| Number of Arrests | 18 individuals |
| Key Leaders Arrested | 2 |
| Total Funds Involved | 250 billion won (approximately $190 million USD) |
| Operational period | September 2022 to May 2024 (20 months) |
| Reason for Investigation | Money laundering accounts |
| Seized Ill-Gotten Gains | 7.5 billion won (approximately $5.7 million USD) |
| Police Action | Warning of dangers, cyber gambling crackdown by Oct. 31 |