The KSA authorised the penalty order following an investigation in which the site was shown to be available to Dutch consumers, without the operator holding the relevant licences. The KSA said that if MKC Limited does not stop illegally offering games of chance it will face a penalty of €28,000 per week, up to a maximum of a €84,000 total.
The order follows research by a KSA supervisor who accessed the site on 24 and 25 May, as well 8 June 2022. The individual was able to create an account, make a deposit and gamble – and noted that no technical measures had been taken to prevents Dutch consumers from taking part.
A player could set their location to Netherlands, with the site including a Dutch language option – but made no reference to Dutch addiction care specialists. The website has seen a significant amount of traffic from Dutch players, including 376,595 unique visits in the period from June 2021 to May 2022.
Acting on behalf of the regulator’s board of directors, the ruling was signed by Ella Seijsener, KSA head of enforcement.
Ongoing crackdown
In a statement accompanying the ruling, the KSA stated its ongoing goal to clampdown on offshore operators in the wake of the launch of the regulated market:
“Since 1 October 2021, licensed providers have been allowed to offer online games of chance in the Netherlands under strict conditions. These conditions are aimed at ensuring a safe legal offer, whereby players are assured of fair play and are protected against gambling addiction. This includes a strict approach to illegal supply.”
The order is the latest in a string of enforcement actions for the regulator, with the KSA most recently issuing a cease and desist order to Sons-of-slots.com operator, LCS Limited.