The Borough of Einfield in the UK has won a money laundering case against the operator of an illegal poker den.
Ahmet Melin, 33, was found guilty of five offences of money laundering under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 at Wood Green Crown Court. He faces a maximum sentence of 14 years imprisonment.
Enfield Council enforcement officers prosecuted the case after finding the Big Bluff Private Members Club in Green Lanes was a front for an illegal poker club and not a non-profit private members club. The club had a Club Gaming Permit, but not a casino license.
Melin was found to be withdrawing money from the club for his own purposes.
“These are very serious offenses and the council took robust action when it became clear the Big Bluff Private Members Club was a front for an illegal poker den,” said Ian Davis, Enfield Council’s director of environment. “I’m pleased Enfield Council’s Licensing Enforcement, Trading Standards and Legal teams worked together to bring this prosecution which sends out the very clear message that we do not tolerate any illegal gambling in this borough.”
