Illegal Luxury Lottery Uncovered in Vienna
A joint investigation by Vienna’s Criminal Police and the Financial Police has exposed an illegal online lottery offering luxury prizes like Rolex watches and high-end cars. The operation, which targeted users across Europe via social media, was shut down in a March 26 raid. Organizers now face significant fines and immigration consequences.
Unauthorized Lottery Operated via Social Media
Over a period of several months, the suspects sold thousands of lottery tickets online, primarily through Facebook. They lured participants with high-value prizes including watches by Rolex and vehicles from Audi and BMW. Payments were either sent directly to the main suspect—a 30-year-old man—or made in person at the group’s headquarters in Vienna’s 21st district.
On March 26, authorities raided the lottery’s hidden base, a residential property, with support from special police units including WEGA. Only one Rolex watch was handed over voluntarily, but customs detection dog Ike discovered two more hidden inside a laundry cabinet. Officers also found detailed records of participant payments, confirming undeclared revenues in the six-figure range.
Financial and Immigration Consequences
The suspects now face charges under the Austrian Gambling Act, in addition to financial penalties for tax violations. The confiscated watches were secured by the tax authority as collateral for unpaid gambling taxes. Furthermore, because the suspects are Serbian nationals without legal residence in Austria, immigration proceedings are expected.
Finance Minister Markus Marterbauer and State Secretary Barbara Eibinger-Miedl, said:
“Thanks to the excellent cooperation between our investigative authorities, we were able to put an end to this fraudulent scheme. This successful operation once again shows how unscrupulously illegal gambling networks operate and siphon large sums past the state.”
Individuals who participated in the illegal lottery may pursue civil action to reclaim their losses. However, given the nature of the operation, recovery may be complex.