Gambling worth ₹79 crore disguised as 'skill game arcades'; nine people from Gujarat arrested in the U.S.

Nine individuals of Gujarati origin have been federally charged in the United States for running an illegal gambling business valued at over $9.5 million (approximately ₹79 crore). U.S. authorities uncovered this major gambling ring that operated across six locations in Missouri. The accused allegedly disguised their illegal electronic gambling operations under the cover of “skill game arcades.” According to a statement released by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the group earned over $9.5 million between 2022 and 2025.

The businesses were operated under names like “Big Win Arcade,” “Spin Hitters,” and “Vegas City Arcade,” and were portrayed as legitimate entertainment centers in cities such as Springfield, Joplin, and Branson West.

On May 14, a federal grand jury in Springfield indicted the nine individuals on 72 counts, with the accused hailing from Georgia (4), New York (2), and one each from Washington, Arkansas, and Colorado. The indictment was unsealed shortly before a court hearing held on July 23–24. The charges include conspiracy to commit wire fraud, operating illegal gambling businesses, and conspiracy to commit money laundering.

The group allegedly hired local staff to run gambling devices and slot machines in violation of Missouri and federal laws. The proceeds from the illegal gambling operations were deposited into various personal bank accounts in the U.S. and India, effectively laundering the money. Over a three-year period, the group allegedly laundered more than $9.5 million in U.S. currency. Investigations also revealed that the accused communicated about their illicit activities through WhatsApp group chats.

Officials have stated that this case is among the largest arcade-based gambling fraud operations uncovered in the U.S.