UK High Court Restricts Media Access in Criminal Probe of Former GVC Turkey Operations
High Court Limits Media Reporting on GVC’s Turkey Investigation
A High Court judge has imposed strict restrictions on what the press can disclose about a long-standing criminal investigation concerning GVC’s previous business dealings in Turkey. This ruling complicates the legal matters involving former executives of the company.
Judge Backs Gambling Commission’s Request to Curtail Reporting
On November 26, Justice Hill ruled in favor of the UK Gambling Commission’s request to issue a broad prohibition on sharing sensitive information tied to the criminal inquiry known as Operation Incendiary. The judge agreed that revealing details from files provided by HM Revenue & Customs or the Crown Prosecution Service could jeopardize the integrity of future court proceedings by influencing potential jurors.
Background of the Operation Incendiary Investigation
The probe focuses on alleged illegal activities conducted by GVC’s Turkey business division between 2011 and 2018. This complex case previously led to a substantial settlement, with the company agreeing to pay hundreds of millions of pounds in 2023 to resolve company-wide involvement. The investigation has now zeroed in on individuals, including former CEO Kenny Alexander and former chairman Lee Feldman, both of whom deny any wrongdoing. Their criminal trial is scheduled to begin in February 2028.
Legal Disputes Between Former Executives and Gambling Regulator
Alexander and Feldman are also pursuing legal action against the UK Gambling Commission, alleging that the regulator mishandled confidential information related to the investigation. They argue this mishandling disrupted their plans to acquire the company formerly known as 888. This civil lawsuit intertwines with the ongoing criminal proceedings, creating complexities in managing the disclosure of information.
Judge Balances Open Justice with Need for Confidentiality
Although Justice Hill recognized the importance of transparency in the justice system, he determined that a temporary reporting ban was necessary in this case to protect the integrity of the criminal process. The judge noted concerns about the timing of the regulator’s request, pointing out it was made shortly before the civil trial began and was not supported by witness statements from the Gambling Commission.
Implications of the Court Order and Future Proceedings
This reporting restriction mirrors earlier attempts by prosecutors to limit public disclosure related to GVC’s 2023 settlement. With the criminal trial expected to extend through multiple phases until 2029, the order ensures that key investigative documents remain confidential until the conclusion of the initial trial stage.
