Austrian Police Seize Illegal Slot Machines

Law enforcement officials in Austria have reported that they've seized 123 illegal slot machines in the Salzburg and Upper Austrian regions of the country, destroying the machines after they were taken into custody.

The machines were often being kept in businesses that were being used as a front for illegal backroom casinos, which included a crepe delivery service, internet shop, and wine bar. The criminal enterprises were working to keep police from entering buildings with different measures, including putting iron plates in front of doors to restrict access. Once inside the facilities, the slot machines were emptied and more than €17,000 was seized.

Those behind the illegal gambling can be fined €4,000 per device seized.

Regarding the seizures, Austrian Finance Minister Magnus Brunner said, "The regular focus controls of the financial police are pushing back illegal gambling and making the business increasingly unattractive for criminal operators. In terms of player protection, we will continue to take tough action here."