Italy investigates alleged slot machine tax fraud
Italian authorities have implemented precautionary measures against 15 people in an investigation into alleged slot machine manipulation in Cosenza. Carabinieri officers and personnel from the Customs and Monopolies Agency, known as ADM, carried out the measures on October 26 under the coordination of local prosecutors.
The court order places two suspects under house arrest, imposes noncustodial measures on six others, and prohibits seven people from conducting gambling business activities for one year. The proceedings remain at the preliminary investigation stage.
Investigators allege that machines were fitted with unauthorized electronic components that diverted part of their wagering activity away from the state monitoring system. This allegedly allowed revenue to be collected without the corresponding payment of gambling tax.
An ADM official is accused of assisting concealment
The investigation also concerns an ADM official suspected of providing advance information about inspections. Authorities allege that the official helped participants conceal altered equipment and facilitated the removal of previously seized electronic boards so they could be reset and returned to circulation.
Earlier checks led to the seizure of 145 machines and ≈€80,000 found inside them. A separate stage of the same investigation resulted in a preventive asset seizure exceeding €12 million on November 6, 2025; that financial measure predates the latest action.
ADM’s initial examination of machine data and collection counters identified anomalies that prompted further inquiries. Investigators subsequently examined seized devices, records, and electronic communications. The accusations remain subject to judicial examination and challenge by the defense; the October measures do not constitute convictions.
