LOTBA & Prosecutor dismantle illegal betting in Buenos Aires
The Lottery of the City of Buenos Aires (LOTBA) has struck another blow against illegal gambling after coordinating a raid in the Villa 21-24 neighborhood. The operation led to the dismantling of a commercial establishment that operated outside legal boundaries, functioning as a strategic point for collecting bets. According to authorities, the premises acted as a "cashier" for various digital platforms that lack official authorization to operate in the jurisdiction, facilitating irregular cash deposits and withdrawals.
The judicial procedure was executed following an order from Criminal, Misdemeanor, and Petty Offenses Court No. 19, based on the violation of Article 301 bis of the Argentine Penal Code. This regulation establishes severe penalties for those who exploit or organize gambling without due authorization from the competent authority. The investigation was led by the Specialized Gambling Prosecutor's Office (FEJA), under the direction of Dr. Juan Rozas and Dr. Rodrigo Branca, who acted in response to a prior complaint filed by the legal teams of the Buenos Aires lottery.
During the police raid, a significant amount of evidentiary material confirming the illicit activity was seized. Among the confiscated items were electronic devices, mobile phones, computers, and digital media used to manage bets, in addition to accounting documentation and cash. The operation involved the joint participation of the Judicial Investigations Body (CIJ) of the Public Prosecutor's Office and officers from the City Police, supported by LOTBA's technical inspection teams.
The regulatory body emphasized that these actions are part of a permanent control policy to clean up the market and protect the most vulnerable sectors of the population from the risks associated with clandestine offerings. Furthermore, citizens were reminded that the only online gaming platforms that guarantee safe environments and transparency are those operating under the official ".bet.ar" domain. These legal platforms ensure the necessary identity validation to prevent access by minors and guarantee the payment of prizes under state supervision.
Tags: Argentina, Villa 21-24 Argentina, Buenos Aires, LOTBA