Ukrainian law enforcement, in collaboration with the National Sports Integrity Platform, uncovered multiple criminal networks involved in match-fixing across various sports, including cyber football, cyber basketball, table tennis, football, and basketball. These groups reportedly generated millions of hryvnias in illicit earnings through betting platforms, according to the Cyber Police of Ukraine.
The criminal organizations included former elite athletes who exploited their professional connections to orchestrate fixed matches. These events featured participation from e-sports players based in Ukraine, Australia, and other European nations. Cooperation with Australian law enforcement also yielded additional details about the criminal operations within the country.
Investigators revealed that players were coerced into deliberately losing matches through bribery, threats, intimidation, and manipulation. During a large-scale operation, authorities conducted 45 searches across Ukraine, targeting suspects' homes, vehicles, and other premises. Numerous items of evidence, both physical and digital, were seized, confirming the illegal activities.
Despite attempts by some individuals to erase or conceal evidence, the Cyber Police successfully recovered key digital data. The case is being pursued under several sections of Ukraine’s Criminal Code, addressing crimes such as fraud, coercion, bribery, and money laundering. If convicted, those involved could face up to 12 years in prison along with property confiscation.
