WILLEMSTAD – Concerns are mounting over the activities of online gambling operators licensed in Curaçao, with allegations that they are illegally providing services in unregulated markets such as the UK and targeting vulnerable individuals, including those with gambling addictions and mental health issues.
A whistleblower, identified as Michael Weir, has raised alarm about Santeda International, a company allegedly operating multiple bookmaker sites through a complex network of shell companies. According to Weir, these sites unlawfully offer gambling services in the UK and the Netherlands, circumventing local regulations and exploiting compulsive gamblers.
Illegal Operations and Exploitation of Addicted Gamblers
Weir claims that these bookmakers deliberately market their services to individuals registered with GAMSTOP, the UK’s national self-exclusion scheme for problem gamblers. “It is a well-known fact that addicted gamblers in the UK who are registered with GAMSTOP are specifically targeted with illegal advertising online via 'non-GAMSTOP' betting site ads,” he stated in his report.
These sites reportedly make it nearly impossible for users to withdraw their funds, imposing excessive identification requirements such as video submissions while making deposits seamless. Weir also alleges that customer service teams are largely unresponsive, except when denying responsibility for complaints. Attempts to self-exclude from these platforms are reportedly ignored or redirected to departments that never respond.
Questionable Licensing Practices in Curaçao
Weir questions why Curaçao authorities are failing to crack down on such operators, despite mounting evidence of unethical and potentially illegal activities. The issue calls into question the regulatory oversight of Curaçao’s gambling sector, which has long been criticized for providing a haven for loosely monitored gaming operations that cater to global markets.
The Dutch government has recently increased its scrutiny of Curaçao’s licensing system, particularly regarding its role in facilitating online gambling services that violate the laws of European jurisdictions. Weir’s claims add to the growing pressure on Dutch authorities to enforce stricter controls on Curaçao-based gambling operators.
A Growing Crisis with Deadly Consequences
Weir warns that the continued operations of these sites will lead to further tragedies, with compulsive gamblers falling deeper into financial ruin and despair. “These services will cause many deaths in the UK,” he stated, emphasizing the urgent need for intervention.
While he has requested compensation for his losses, he remains committed to exposing the broader issue, calling for immediate action from both UK and Dutch regulators.
Authorities Urged to Act
The allegations underscore the need for tighter international cooperation in regulating online gambling and protecting vulnerable individuals. If Curaçao wishes to maintain credibility as a licensing jurisdiction, it may need to implement more rigorous oversight and enforcement measures to prevent operators from exploiting legal loopholes to target foreign markets.
As this story develops, it remains to be seen whether regulators in the UK, the Netherlands, and Curaçao will take decisive action to address these serious concerns.