Organizer of Illegal Poker Tournament in the Netherlands Fined €110,000

^{Pictured: Authorities seized €40,000 in cash from one of the underground poker events}

The Netherlands Gambling Authority (KSA) has reported a series of raids targeting underground poker tournaments. The operation, which resulted in the seizure of tens of thousands of euros in cash, took place in the fourth quarter of 2024.

Authorities uncovered six illegal poker tournaments in cities including Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Tilburg, The Hague, and Asten.

At several of these locations, investigators found large sums of cash — up to €40,000 — being used as buy-ins. One organizer has been hit with a €110,000 fine.

KSA officials linked the illegal tournaments to organized crime, stating, “The underground poker events we’ve uncovered often have direct ties to criminal networks. Our mission goes beyond stopping unlicensed gambling — we are also cracking down on the criminal activities that come with it.”

The regulator also pointed out the heightened risk of gambling addiction for participants in these illicit games. In 2025, KSA plans to intensify its efforts against the illegal gambling market, working closely with law enforcement and local authorities.

Under Dutch law, only the state-run Holland Casino is authorized to host live poker tournaments. Any other cash-based poker event is prohibited, with private or family gatherings being the sole exception.