Iran shuts down major UK-linked online gambling ring

Iran's Intelligence Ministry has dismantled an online gambling and betting network with ties to the United Kingdom, marking a major crackdown on illicit financial activities in the country.

In a statement released on Saturday, the ministry revealed that the operation to dismantle the network, dubbed Nitro Bet, followed 14 months of extensive intelligence gathering and investigative efforts. The network was described as the largest of its kind in Iran, with operations spanning across various online platforms.

According to the ministry, the Nitro Bet network facilitated the transfer of substantial sums of money out of Iran through a complex web of 35,006 accounts, 1,200 rented banking portals, and 54 major gambling and betting websites. The network's activities were allegedly conducted in violation of Iranian laws, including charges of disrupting the economic system, money laundering, operating illegal gambling houses online, and acquiring funds through unlawful means.

The announcement also implicated five managers of the network and the "Pardakht.me" banking portal, who were apprehended by Iranian security and intelligence forces. These individuals face charges related to their involvement in the illicit operations of the network.

Iranian authorities have accused the UK-based elements behind the network of engaging in financial sabotage and exploiting online gambling for illegal gains. The ministry characterized the network as part of a "London-based mafia", alleging that the UK government turned a blind eye to its activities in exchange for heavy taxes on its profits, effectively enabling the criminal enterprise to flourish.

In addition to cracking down on the illicit financial activities, Iranian officials have expressed concern over the normalization of online gambling, which contradicts Islamic teachings.