1xBet Accused of Violating Gaming Laws in Liberia

12.12.2024

Lipay Bet, operating under the 1xBet brand in Liberia, faces allegations of defying the National Lottery Authority (NLA) by continuing gaming activities without proper licensing. The company’s actions have raised important concerns among regulators and competitors.

NLA’s Mandate Ignored

On September 16, 2024, the NLA issued a formal notice to 1xBet, citing severe violations of Gaming Regulation 001. The notice demanded an immediate shutdown of the company’s operations, including its online platform, and the removal of all promotional materials such as billboards and radio advertisements. Despite this, 1xBet reportedly continues to operate, raising questions about its adherence to regulatory frameworks.

Investigations have revealed that 1xBet is promoting and offering slot gaming on its platform without securing the required licenses, a clear breach of Liberian gaming laws. Additionally, the company is allegedly using the mobile payment service Orange Money to facilitate deposits, a practice that has drawn criticism from regulators. Compounding these violations, 1xBet is accused of withholding customer winnings, further undermining consumer trust and compliance with NLA regulations.

Industry Frustrations and Regulatory Gaps

Competitors have expressed dissatisfaction with 1xBet’s alleged illegal activities, accusing the company of exploiting regulatory gaps to gain an unfair advantage. The accusations highlight broader concerns about the enforcement of gaming laws in Liberia and the integrity of the financial system.

The controversies surrounding 1xBet are not limited to Liberia. The company has been implicated in allegations of money laundering and potential connections to organized crime. These accusations have tarnished its global reputation and attracted scrutiny from international regulatory bodies.

Adding to the challenges, 1xBet’s office in Monrovia remains closed due to shareholder disputes. Reports suggest internal conflicts over profit distribution, leaving the timeline for resolving these issues uncertain.