A recent crackdown on illegal gaming in the Lower Mainland has led to the charging of two individuals by the Joint Illegal Gaming Investigation Team (JIGIT) of the Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit of British Columbia (CFSEU-BC).
Initiated in March 2023, the investigation initially targeted an illicit gaming site before expanding to encompass multiple gaming establishments. As a result of the operation, a significant haul was seized, including gaming tables, electronic devices, 145 kilograms of contraband tobacco, and roughly $240,000 in cash, as confirmed by the CFSEU-BC.
Sgt. Sarbjit K. Sangha emphasized the extensive nature of illegal gaming operations and the substantial efforts needed to disrupt them. He commended the investigators’ commitment and the collaborative efforts that led to charges, seizures, and asset forfeitures.
On August 26, charges were brought against 54-year-old Burnaby resident Shahrouz Younesi for operating a common gaming house and distributing untaxed tobacco products. Concurrently, Xiaoyi “Karen” Zhang, a 46-year-old from Vancouver, faced charges related to running a common gaming house. Both individuals are set to make court appearances in the near future, according to CFSEU-BC.
