Wiesbaden dismantles €7,456 illegal gambling ring with mass slot machine seizures
Wiesbaden authorities have cracked down on illegal gambling over the past two years. Around 40 unauthorised slot machines were confiscated from pubs, kiosks, and hidden back rooms. The city’s finance chief has now declared a zero-tolerance stance on the issue.
The seizures took place across various locations, including bars and small shops. Some of the machines generated tens of thousands of euros in just a few months. Police and trade supervisors worked together to identify and remove them.
In total, €7,456 in cash was recovered from the confiscated devices. The Treasury and Tax Office is now examining the machines for possible tax evasion. No specific operators have been named in connection with the illegal activity. The city has confirmed that all seized machines will be destroyed. Dr. Hendrik Schmehl, Wiesbaden’s finance chief, stressed that authorities will not tolerate any form of illegal gambling within the city.
The investigation into tax evasion remains ongoing. The destruction of the machines marks the end of their use in illegal operations. Authorities continue to monitor venues where such devices might reappear.
