Closure of Offshore Gambling Companies Sparks Regulatory Concerns Ahead of Investigative Release
Offshore Gambling Network Dismantles Key Entities Before Report Launch
A major offshore gambling operation, primarily targeting the UK market, has recently shut down several significant companies just days before the release of a critical investigative report. This development has renewed worries about regulatory loopholes and the difficulty of enforcing accountability in this sector.
Investigation Uncovers Network Linked to Unlicensed UK Gambling Activities
The upcoming report, prepared by industry observers GAMRS and Deal Me Out, focuses on a complex network associated with gambling brands such as MyStake, GoldenBet, DonBet, and Rolletto. This network reportedly facilitated billions of pounds in bets from UK customers without holding proper licensing, raising serious legal and regulatory questions.
In anticipation of the report’s publication, it has been revealed that two prominent companies integral to this network, Santeda International B.V. and GTW B.V., have officially ceased operations. The timing of these closures coincides with heightened scrutiny following previous inquiries into the group’s practices.
Complex Corporate Structure Evades Regulation
A prior GAMRS investigation in late 2025 detailed how the network employed a multi-jurisdictional setup designed to obscure ownership and circumvent regulatory oversight. The structure involved entities based in Curaçao used to secure licenses, with operational controls linked to Georgia and key technological and financial activities dispersed across Europe. This intricate arrangement enabled the network to operate with minimal transparency across both regulated and unregulated markets.
At the heart of this operation lies platform provider Upgaming, which was found to offer far more than software solutions. Earlier findings demonstrated that numerous gambling sites within the network shared backend systems, hosting environments, and customer support services, suggesting centralized management behind seemingly independent brands.
Continued Popularity Among UK Gamblers Despite Regulatory Actions
Traffic data highlights the vast scale of this network, with millions of visits generated, primarily from users in the UK. Although recent enforcement measures have disrupted access to some content, user engagement with these platforms remains substantial.
The recently dissolved entities were under the administration of corporate service provider IGA Group. After IGA Group’s exit, control briefly shifted to an individual named Xianbo Wei before the companies were formally removed from official registries.
Consumers Face Risks Due to Lack of Clear Responsible Entities
Investigators warn that even as companies dissolve, their online operations continue unabated. This practice leaves players vulnerable, as no accountable corporate bodies remain to address disputes, making it challenging for users to reclaim lost funds.
Report Delayed but Set for Publication Amid Legal Review
The release of the report experienced a short delay due to legal correspondence from a top UK law firm. Nevertheless, the authors have confirmed that the findings will be published soon after a limited period allowing involved parties to respond.
Anticipated Impact and Calls for Stronger Regulation
The forthcoming report promises a deeper examination of how this network adapts under regulatory pressure, including changes in corporate structures, retention of shared technical resources, and continued targeting of restricted markets. Given the reported billions in UK betting volume and growing media scrutiny, there is an expectation that this case will intensify demands for stricter enforcement against offshore gambling operators and their infrastructure providers.
