Authorities in Argentina have stopped a criminal group that encouraged children and teenagers to gamble online. Ten people were arrested after 71 raids in Buenos Aires and Mar del Plata. Police said the group got minors to bet in online games, which could harm their mental health and social life.

The investigation was led by the Federal Department of Investigations of the Argentine Federal Police, especially the Cybercrimes Against Children and Adolescents Division. Police said they carefully watched social media and online platforms and found a large network working without any legal permission.

How the Gang Operated

The gang offered online gambling services through fake websites and social media accounts. Members acted as intermediaries, cashiers, or account administrators. They used personal profiles and public pages to advertise games mainly to teenagers and young adults.

Police said the group used programmed schemes to recruit new users, load virtual chips, and manage funds. By exposing minors to gambling at an early age, the gang increased anxiety levels and made betting seem normal. Experts say early exposure to gambling can harm children socially and psychologically, as it teaches them to see gambling as a way to belong or gain recognition.

Raids and Arrests

The case was managed by the Functional Unit of Instruction and Trial No. 8 of Berazategui, under prosecutor Ernesto Daniel Ichazo. The raids were approved by Magistrate Francisco Garmendia and took place across many locations including Berazategui, La Matanza, Florencio Varela, Malvinas Argentinas, San Martin, Tres de Febrero, Moreno, Pilar, Lomas de Zamora, Quilmes, La Plata, Avellaneda, Mar del Plata, and more.

Ten suspects were arrested, including the gang leader, and 55 other people were officially notified that they are under investigation. Authorities also seized large amounts of evidence, including 1.8 kilos of marijuana, 30 banners advertising gambling platforms, brochures, notebooks recording bets, payments, and winnings, as well as 80 cell phones, computers, and other devices. They also took three cars and a van, some of which were displayed on social media as winnings from gambling.

Authorities Warn the Public

The Argentine Federal Police said the operation highlights the risks of illegal online gambling aimed at minors. “This criminal network caused psychological and social harm by exposing children to betting too early,” the police statement said.

Experts and police urge parents and schools to monitor online activities and educate children about the dangers of gambling. They emphasize that minors should not be allowed to participate in any form of betting, virtual or in person. The dismantling of this gang is seen as an important step to protect children and teenagers from the harmful effects of early gambling.

Authorities continue to investigate the case and warn that online gambling platforms targeting minors are illegal and will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.