Arrest in the UAE in Criminal Case Involving Gambling Platform ZKasino
Authorities in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have informed the Netherlands that they have arrested a suspect in connection with an ongoing criminal investigation. The individual is a 21-year-old Norwegian man who was internationally wanted for alleged involvement in large-scale fraud linked to the purported gambling platform ZKasino.
The criminal investigation, led by the Dutch Fiscal Intelligence and Investigation Service (FIOD) under the direction of the Public Prosecution Service (OM), focuses on significant fraud surrounding ZKasino. Investors were repeatedly promised that they would receive their deposits back within 30 days—something that ultimately never happened.
The first suspect, residing in the Netherlands, was arrested on 29 April 2024. Communication between suspects has since revealed that there was never any intention to return the invested funds. The technical setup of the associated smart contract also strongly suggests this. This method of deception is known as a 'rug pull' - a type of investment fraud involving cryptocurrencies.
On 6 March 2025, a 'Red Notice' was issued through Interpol for the 21-year-old co-suspect.
Extradition
Following the arrest in the UAE, the Netherlands will now submit a formal extradition request. The Dutch government has full confidence in a smooth extradition process and expresses its sincere gratitude to the UAE authorities for their strong cooperation.
Since 1 August 2023, the Netherlands and the UAE have had treaties in place for mutual legal assistance and extradition in criminal matters.