Stanleybet, the UK based wagering group, with operations spread all
over Europe, has vowed to continue in its bid to offer its sportsbetting
services to the Greek gambling market.
The announcement came after Greek authorities raided a second Stanleybet
outlet in the city of Thessaloniki, only days after its other outlet was raided
in the capital, Athens.
According to the Greek police, Stanleybet is operating in direct
contradiction to the country's law, which gives monopolistic operating rights to
the local OPAP gambling company. Stanleybet was charged with alleged illegal
betting activities and had cash and equipment confiscated during the two raids.
"After a lawsuit filed by OPAP, Greek police arrested the person in charge of
Stanleybet's store in Thessaloniki and seized terminals, cash and coupons," said
the UK gambling company in a statement after the incident.
Stanleybet "conducted illegal betting without a permit from the appropriate
authorities aiming to make monetary gain at the expense of the Greek state",
said the police.
OPAP has a twenty year contract with the Greek government (originating in
2000), whereby it holds exclusive betting rights in the country, including any
new games and operations. It is only natural that the government is keen to hang
onto this monopoly as any concessions go straight into state coffers.
However, Stanleybet is adamant that the monopoly goes contrary to European
Union law and has vowed to fight what it considers unfair legislation that does
not offer Greek citizens a fair gambling market.
"We are determined to defend a regulated and fair sportsbetting market in
Greece," said Stanleybet.
