Spanish officials have apprehended 17 individuals believed to be engaged in match-fixing operations connected to the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF).
Among those detained are administrators and competitors from the RFEF’s third tier.
The apprehensions were carried out by the Spanish National Police in a collaborative effort with the European Union law enforcement organization Europol and the Spanish Football Federation.
The operation was conducted in Melilla and Granada. Eleven individuals were taken into custody in Melilla and six in Granada.
The inquiry commenced in February when the Spanish General Directorate for Gambling Regulation (DGOJ) notified the police about numerous reports of match-fixing they had received.
The DGOJ’s suspicions were founded on numerous wagers placed from Melilla targeting the outcomes of Melilla teams in several specific football contests.
Concurrently, the Spanish Football Federation also came forward, declaring that suspicions were raised through their reporting protocols. These reports centered on the questionable Melilla teams, particularly their prior alleged match-fixing activities and improper use of aid and subsidies.
Further inquiries will continue.
Spanish officials, following a comprehensive probe, have uncovered connections between the head of Melilla Football Club and a criminal syndicate engaged in match manipulation. He is also accused of being entangled in controversies involving athletes.
Law enforcement agents also indict players for utilizing intermediaries to conceal their association with wagering and games.
Moreover, Melilla Club was discovered to have received illicit funds. These funds escalated over time.
Seven football contests are presently under scrutiny. The prospect of additional apprehensions has been dismissed. At present, law enforcement cannot ascertain the total sum defrauded from the criminal enterprise.
In May, the Spanish National Police declared an inquiry into potential gambling deception identified by the DGOJ. However, it remains unclear if this is the same as the ongoing investigation.
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