All eight individuals detained following a police raid on an alleged illegal gambling operation in Santa Fe City, Argentina, have been released by order of Prosecutor Roberto Olcese, who is awaiting forensic analysis results before advancing formal charges.
The operation was carried out by agents from the Investigation Police (PDI) alongside tactical units of the Santa Fe Provincial Police. Authorities identified approximately 30 individuals at the premises, 25 of whom were recorded as participants in gambling activity.
The eight detained are expected to face charges related to organizing, administering or commercializing gambling activities without legal authorization.
During the search, officers seized 32 mobile phones, two poker tables, notebooks containing betting records and multiple decks of cards. Authorities also confiscated approximately ARS 20m ($14,400) in cash, along with poker chips valued at an estimated ARS 4m, color-coded in denominations ranging from ARS 500 to ARS 50,000.
Additional items recovered included three passports, a police credential, a precision scale and drug residue materials. Police reported the presence of 25.1 grams of cocaine and 1.8 grams of marijuana at the scene.
Investigators classified the venue as clandestine based on restricted entry protocols, surveillance at the door, predominantly nocturnal activity and the absence of any official gaming license. The search warrant was authorized by Judge Sergio Carraro of the Santa Fe First Instance Court.
The investigation originated from an anonymous tip received on January 7 and was subsequently reported to prosecutors by the Santa Fe Lottery.
Formal imputation proceedings are expected once forensic examinations are completed.
In Santa Fe, only operators licensed by the provincial lottery authority are permitted to conduct gaming activities, and unauthorized operations can lead to criminal charges under provincial gaming and penal statutes
