Europol’s Operation VETO exposed a large match-fixing network with 425 suspects across 15 countries, involved in fixing over 380 professional football matches, generating €8 million in illicit profits. The ongoing investigation emphasizes the need for international collaboration in combating organized crime in football.
Europol’s investigation into a widespread football match-fixing scheme has revealed a criminal network involving 425 participants across 15 countries. More than 380 professional matches are suspected to have been fixed, generating over €8 million in illicit betting profits and corrupt payments exceeding €2 million. This operation demonstrates the sophisticated organization behind these illegal activities, threatening the integrity of professional football.
The Joint Investigation Team (JIT), named Operation VETO, took place from July 2011 to January 2013, led by Europol and supported by law enforcement from Germany, Finland, Hungary, Austria, Slovenia, Eurojust, and Interpol. Conducted investigations spanned multiple European nations, leveraging intelligence from 13,000 emails to establish connections between match officials and suspect networks. Resulting from the operation, several prosecutions have occurred in Germany, leading to substantial prison sentences for those involved.
Rob Wainwright, Director of Europol, expressed concern over the infiltration of organized crime into football, stating, “This is a sad day for European football and more evidence of the corrupting influence of organized crime.” He emphasized the importance of international cooperation in combating these trends and assured collaboration in sharing investigation outcomes with UEFA President Michel Platini.
Among the suspicious matches include high-stakes encounters such as World Cup qualifiers and Champions League games. Investigators identified 150 cases with multiple betting operations conducted from Singapore, where bribes of up to €100,000 per match were reported. This global issue not only affects Europe but also presents ongoing risks in regions like Africa and Central America.
Fridhelm Althans, Bochum Police spokesman, pointed out that the operation was aimed at dismantling solid networks that profit from match-fixing. Gianni Baldi of Interpol highlighted the necessity of strong partnerships for tackling international crime effectively. The investigation underscores the challenge presented by cross-border criminal activities, where up to 50 suspects may operate across ten countries.
Eurojust President Michèle Coninsx noted that successful international collaboration was crucial in pursuing these investigations, enabling the opening of new inquiries and resolving legal complexities. She emphasized the significance of funding support for the operation, marking it as one of the largest Joint Investigation Teams in history. Furthermore, inquiries are still in progress, indicating a continuing effort to address match-fixing.
Following the initial report on February 4, 2013, there has been extensive media interest regarding fixed matches; however, Europol has not disclosed specific details about any matches, as this remains a decision for national prosecution services. As the investigation unfolds, Europol will refrain from further commentary on ongoing inquiries.
The extensive match-fixing investigation led by Europol has uncovered a complex criminal organization threatening football’s integrity across Europe. With over 380 matches under suspicion and numerous arrests made, the operation highlights the global nature of this illicit activity. Continued international cooperation and effective legal frameworks will be necessary to combat match-fixing in the sports industry.
Original Source: www.europol.europa.eu
