Victoria Police Bust Illegal Casinos Tied to Drug Crime Scheme

A months-long operation against drug manufacturing and distribution resulted in the arrests of dozens, while uncovering residential properties being used as illegal casinos across Victoria, Australia.

Two of the venues operated illegal casinos. On site, officers found and seized a significant amount of casino betting chips and various equipment, along with approximately AU$600,000, or $421,200 in cash. Police found illicit drugs, including five kilograms of ketamine, seven kilograms of methylamphetamine and a significant number of illicit tobacco and vapes. Various weapons, including handheld weapons like machetes, tasers, swords and daggers, along with five firearms, were also found and seized.

Carlie Kohler, Clandestine Laboratory Squad’s Detective Inspector, spoke about the latest operation, saying, 'We are continuing to dismantle drug syndicates as we work to reduce drug-related harm within the community.' The early stage of the investigation uncovered that residential properties in Box Hill and Carnegie were operating as illegal casinos. During the latest raid on Middleborough Road in Box Hill South, a 43-year-old Chinese national was arrested along with a 49-year-old Balwyn North man. They are both suspected of running illegal casinos, facing various charges and remaining in custody. At an address on Whitehorse Road in Box Hill, police arrested a 59-year-old Box Hill woman, suspected of running the illegal casino. On site, law enforcement also found ledgers that tracked gambling activities.