The operator of Lottomart, Maple International Ventures Limited, has agreed to pay a £360,000 financial penalty after the Gambling Commission identified major shortcomings in its compliance practices. The settlement follows a section 116 regulatory review triggered by a June 2024 compliance assessment of the company’s remote operating licence.

According to the Commission, the investigation revealed significant weaknesses in the operator’s anti-money laundering procedures and social responsibility controls. Customers were able to transact beyond financial thresholds without undergoing strict checks. 

John Pierce, director of enforcement at the Gambling Commission, stressed that licensed businesses are expected to implement robust procedures. He stated that every operator must ensure their systems are capable of keeping gambling crime free while protecting vulnerable consumers.

Failings in Risk Assessments and Account Controls

Between June 2023 and July 2024, Maple International Ventures carried out risk assessments that the regulator later deemed inadequate. Crucial threats such as the involvement of organised crime groups and the use of mule accounts were not sufficiently considered.

The review also highlighted serious problems in the firm’s ability to identify duplicate and linked accounts. In one case, a customer was able to bypass detection measures simply by switching the order of their names. These regulatory gaps allowed individuals to continue gambling despite red flags that should have prompted closer scrutiny.

Weaknesses in Customer Protection Measures

Alongside money laundering concerns, the Commission identified failures in the company’s approach to customer interaction. Systems designed to detect harmful gambling behaviour were poorly implemented and often ineffective.

The operator was found to lack reliable processes to monitor activity from the moment accounts were opened. Indicators such as binge gambling, sudden spikes in play, overnight sessions and large wagers following major wins were not properly addressed. As a result, vulnerable players were not identified at an early stage, undermining the operator’s social responsibility obligations.

Settlement and Industry Implications

The £360,000 settlement includes a £50,000 divestment, with all funds directed to socially responsible purposes. The Gambling Commission has urged all licensed operators to review the public statement regarding Maple International Ventures and consider whether their compliance frameworks are effective and consistently applied.

Pierce explained that the regulator will not hesitate to act against companies without adequate safeguards. By addressing these issues, the Commission ensures that gambling in the United Kingdom is fair and free of crime through consumer protection measures. 

The financial penalty underlines the Commission’s focus on holding operators accountable for anti-money laundering and social responsibility standards. For Maple International Ventures, the settlement closes the review and highlights the importance of strong compliance controls in the remote gambling sector.