ADM: Gaming Sector Controls in Action

Crackdown on Illegal Gambling in Naples Nets Thousands in Fines

Italian authorities have conducted a coordinated operation targeting illegal gambling activities in the province of Naples. The operation, carried out by the Agenzia delle Dogane e dei Monopoli (Agency of Customs and Monopolies), resulted in significant fines and the seizure of gambling machines.

Operation “Napoli è … gioco legale”

Dubbed “Napoli è … gioco legale” (Naples is… legal gambling), the operation involved over thirty agency employees from various regional offices, including Campania, Puglia, Molise, and Basilicata. The focus was on inspecting a dozen establishments housing AWP and “comma 7” gaming machines.

Objectives and Outcomes

The primary goal was to crack down on illegal practices, prevent irregularities, and reinforce the regulatory authority’s presence in the Campania region. The operation led to sanctions against seven machines under Article 110, paragraph 7 of the T.U.L.P.S. (Testo Unico delle Leggi di Pubblica Sicurezza – Consolidated Law on Public Safety), totaling €38,666.66 in fines. These machines were subsequently seized.

Authorities will also recover approximately €600.00 in unpaid taxes.

Further Violations Uncovered

The inspections revealed additional violations. In two establishments, managers or designated representatives were absent, violating Article 8 of the T.U.L.P.S., which carries a penalty ranging from €516 to €3,098 under Article 17 bis, paragraph 2 of the same law.

Furthermore, one establishment was found to be selling unauthorized monopoly goods, violating Article 40 quinquies, paragraph 1 of Legislative Decree 12/01/2016 n. 504. This offense carries an administrative fine ranging from €5,000 to €10,000.