Kazakhstan's police officers have uncovered an illegal online gambling network operating through mobile applications and attracting players from multiple countries.

The investigation, announced by the Kazakh Financial Monitoring Agency, revealed that a resident of Shymkent is suspected of organizing and coordinating a large-scale underground internet casino, The Caspian Post reports via Tazabek.kg.

The illegal operation functioned via a poker mobile application that included virtual clubs named “Vendetta” and “AMG600L,” both integrated into a wider network called “Nomad.” The platform reportedly operated 24/7 and attracted users not only from Kazakhstan but also from neighboring countries such as Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan.

Investigators say the network expanded its audience through messaging apps, targeted promotions, and bonus systems designed to keep players engaged.

Users topped up their accounts via bank transfers and received virtual “chips” to access games. Winnings were later cashed out and transferred back to players’ cards. Organizers reportedly earned steady profits by taking a 3-5% commission from each game table, while also offering virtual credit to encourage continued participation.

Financial flows were concealed using bank accounts registered to so-called “dropper” individuals, including foreign nationals, who were paid between 100,000 and 200,000 tenge per account. The total turnover through these accounts exceeded 557 million tenge.

During searches at the suspected organizer’s residence, law enforcement also discovered and seized narcotics.

Two suspects have been placed under house arrest, and the criminal case has been sent to court.