Anti-vice, drug and rapid reaction police teams raided three sites in Larnaca, Cyprus last week following extensive undercover investigations. Large sums of money, computer equipment, deactivated firearms and even title deeds were confiscated during the operation. It all happened as politician’s debated legislation to ban online gambling from the Mediterranean island.

The owner of one of the premises was arrested and taken to the police station for further questioning before being charged and later released.

Justice Minister Loucas Louca added that it should have been no surprise as the police had warned operators just a few months ago. "And they will continue in order to deal with this problem," he added. "We hope that parliament finally passes the relevant bill so as to offer the police further ammunition to radically deal with this phenomenon, which has turned into a social problem."

Police spokesman Michalis Katsounotos suggested the operation would have only temporarily deterrent effects, and that owners quickly replace seized equipment and relocate.

"We have a legal and a moral obligation to protect and safeguard individuals, families and the wider Cypriot society at large from the consequences of gambling addiction," the police spokesman stressed.