Police raid two underground gambling establishments in Haifa, arrest 100 - report

Israeli police arrested 100 gamblers during raids on two underground gambling establishments in Haifa, N12 News reported. The arrests took place around poker tables and slot machines within the establishments located on HaMekaleph Street.

During the raids, authorities seized approximately 15 computer hard drives, security cameras, cash, and various documents. Administrative proceedings have begun to close the gambling locations, and those arrested were taken for questioning. This operation follows a similar raid in June on a Tel Aviv apartment allegedly used for illegal gambling organized by Chinese foreign residents.

In the June raid, officers confiscated about NIS 1 million in cash, a Glock pistol, ammunition, foreign currency, gambling equipment, two laptops, and other weapons. Eight Chinese foreign residents were arrested on suspicion of operating an illegal gambling establishment.

The Haifa raids come amid growing concerns about gambling in Israel. A Hebrew University study published last September indicated a rise in problematic gambling among some Israelis after the October 7 massacre and the subsequent war. Researchers found a significant increase in scores on the Problem Gambling Severity Index between April 2022 and March 2024, particularly among men struggling with emotional regulation, suggesting gambling may have become a coping mechanism.