Tough New Laws On Gambling Signed In Russia
By Brian Cullingworth, Last updated Aug 3, 2018
Organising online or offline gambling outside demarcated zones can have serious consequences
Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a new law toughening up punitive measures for the unlawful organisation of gambling.
According to the legislation, unlicensed gambling offer by betting organizations outside special zones, as well as systematic provision of premises for unlawful gambling may result in criminal liability.
Organising casino action outside gambling zones without a licence, or using the Internet will carry a prison term of up to 2 years as well as fines of up to 500,000 rubles ($7,950).
If the crime is committed by a group, prison terms may rise to 4 years while a fine may reach 1,000,000 rubles ($15,900). Illegal gambling crime committed by an organised criminal group, with the use of offices, or on an especially large scale, may result in a 6-year prison term and a fine of up to 1.5 million rubles ($23,900).