**Police Raid Illegal Poker Club in Stockholm, 3 Arrested Amid Chaos**
UPDATE: A dramatic police raid at the Krukan poker club in Stockholm has left the local poker community in shock. Late on Friday evening, multiple enforcement agencies stormed the venue during a high-stakes tournament featuring a EUR 100 ($116) buy-in, with nearly 100 players present.
Authorities confirmed they utilized drones and a helicopter in the operation, citing the club’s illegal status for operating without a license from the Swedish Gambling Authority. This raid is part of a broader crackdown on illegal gambling and organized crime, resulting in three arrests and significant asset seizures across multiple locations.
Videos of the raid have circulated on social media, showing a chaotic scene as officers in tactical gear entered the club. Journalist David Lappin from VegasSlotsOnline News shared footage that showcases the intense atmosphere as authorities shut down the venue.
While officials described the operation as “calm and controlled,” reports from the Swedish Poker Association (SvePof) tell a different story. Eyewitnesses claim that police tactics were far more aggressive than suggested, with allegations of officers pushing players to the ground, pointing weapons, and forcing some to remain in a submissive position for hours. One eyewitness reportedly provided SvePof with a photo depicting a bloody face following the incident.
The Swedish Poker Association has received numerous testimonies that raise questions about the proportionality of the police response. Although poker is legal in Sweden, hosting games without the necessary licenses places venues like Krukan outside the law. This situation has sparked intense debate regarding police conduct and the treatment of individuals not suspected of any crime.
As the situation unfolds, the poker community is left grappling with the implications of this raid. The Swedish Gambling Authority has faced criticism for its stringent regulations that have led to the closure of legal gaming establishments, leaving underground venues to fill the void.
What happens next is unclear, but the fallout from this raid is poised to have lasting effects on both the legal and illegal gambling scenes in Sweden. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as authorities continue their investigation into illegal gambling operations across the country.
