EUROPOL: Coordinated Strike Hits Violent Criminal Network Behind Large-scale Illegal Gambling and Money Laundering in Sweden

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A coordinated law enforcement operation carried out in Sweden and Spain between 28 and 29 November targeted a violent criminal network operating in the Stockholm area. The group is believed to run extensive illegal gambling operations and launder significant criminal proceeds, both for its own benefit and for other criminal actors. The network is also linked to drug trafficking in Sweden and across the Nordic region, reinforcing its presence in local and regional criminal markets.

Close to 150 police officers took part in the action, searching six premises in Stockholm, Sweden and two in Murcia, Spain. Five key suspects were arrested (three in Sweden and two in Spain).

Several hundred thousand euros’ worth of valuables were seized, including luxury watches and cash. During the search of a property in Sweden, believed to have been used as an illegal gambling club, authorities also seized drugs prepared for resale and found signs of possible human trafficking.

The suspects form the core of a local criminal network known for its use of violence and intimidation, allowing the group to secure revenues, enforce debts and control sections of the illegal gambling market in the Stockholm area.

The investigation revealed a criminal business model combining:

• illegal gambling, with an estimated annual turnover of EUR 20 million;

• money laundering services for the network and other criminal groups;

• drug trafficking, reinforcing the group’s influence in local and regional markets.

By offering services to other criminals, the group operated as a key facilitator within the wider criminal environment.

From international to local: a coordinated multi-agency strategy

These latest actions are part of a wider, multi-agency strategy to systematically dismantle networks that harm local communities while relying on international criminal connections.

Europol plays a central role in this approach by linking international intelligence with local enforcement actions. By connecting national authorities across borders, Europol ensures that information collected in one jurisdiction can be turned into operational impact in another – including on the streets of Stockholm.

Authorities involved:

• Spain: Spanish National Police (Policía Nacional)

• Sweden: Swedish Police Authority (Polisen).

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