Greek authorities have dismantled a large-scale illegal gambling operation, arresting 35 people across Athens, Thessaloniki and Patras in a sweeping police operation targeting a network that allegedly swindled more than €16 million in unlawful proceeds over eight years.

According to reports from public broadcaster ERT3, among those arrested are the 12 alleged ringleaders of the syndicate, as well as two software developers based in Thessaloniki.

The illegal gambling ring operated as a pyramid structure from 2018, running unlicensed gambling platforms across 37 storefronts — 34 of them in Athens. The network’s leadership imported 10 unlicensed online gambling platforms from abroad and introduced illegal video game software, which lower-tier members installed on computers at the various outlets. Those members received commissions proportional to the earnings generated by each machine.

Authorities say the software was operated remotely, effectively rigging the games against participants. The operation also involved systematic money laundering and multiple violations of personal data protection regulations.

Reports suggest the accused sourced the platforms and software from overseas, while 23 members of the gang handled installation and day-to-day operations at the physical locations, collecting fees based on each terminal’s profits.