Law enforcement officers in New South Wales (NSW) have accused three professional soccer players in the Australian A-League of alleged betting fraud associated with manipulating yellow cards.
The police inquiry followed an investigation by a specialized unit focusing on organized crime that was looking into alleged gambling fraud under the codename “Operation Lighthouse.” Investigators discovered that a veteran player was allegedly told by an individual to orchestrate yellow cards in specific games for financial gain. This individual is thought to be residing abroad in South America.
The three athletes, whose identities have not been disclosed to the public, all play for a club in Sydney’s southwestern region. They have been released on conditional freedom and will soon appear in court to hear further details about the corruption allegations.
“Operation Lighthouse” was initiated in December of last year and centers on the manipulation of yellow card occurrences. The Organized Crime Squad of the State Crime Command is receiving support from the UK Gambling Commission.
Investigators claim that the number of yellow cards was altered in matches played on November 24, 2023, and December 9, 2023.
It is rumored that similar efforts were made during the games on April 20th and May 4th.
Following a comprehensive inquiry, investigators from the anti-crime division executed a warrant in South Coogee, near Sydney, today (May 17th). There, a 33-year-old individual was apprehended and transported to the local police station.
He was subsequently charged with two counts of participating in betting activities that influenced the result of a game. Additional charges centered on aiding in betting activities that influenced the outcome of a game and involvement in a criminal group. The man was freed on bond and will appear in Downing Centre Local Court on June 24th.
Further apprehensions linked to A-League corruption
Meanwhile, investigators from the anti-crime division executed three more warrants in Parramatta, West Hoxton, and Emu Plains.
In Parramatta, investigators apprehended a 27-year-old man and took him to the local police station. There, he was charged with participating in betting activities that influenced the result of a game and involvement in a criminal group. He was freed on bond and will appear in Downing Centre Local Court on June 27th.
The final apprehension took place in West Hoxton, where a 32-year-old man was transported to a nearby police station. He was also charged with participating in betting activities that influenced the result of a game and involvement in a criminal group.
The man was freed on conditional bond and will appear in Campbelltown Local Court on May 30th.
Additional information regarding the case has not been disclosed.
Although this is the case, the Australian Professional Leagues (APL) has verified the detentions and stated they will collaborate with law enforcement and assist them in managing the situation.
“The APL is aware of the arrests by NSW Police of three A-League Men players, which are the outcome of international law enforcement collaboration focused on gambling corruption related to alleged yellow card manipulation in matches,” the APL declared.
“The effort to protect the integrity of our competitions must be steadfast, and we are working closely with all relevant authorities on this matter. Due to the ongoing nature of the investigation and police inquiries, we are unable to provide further information at this time.”
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