A husband and wife from Kazakhstan are alleged to have used a hidden camera and earpieces to fraudulently win nearly A$1.2m (£593,000; $784,000) in an Australian casino.
The couple were caught after staff at the casino in the central Barangaroo neighbourhood of Sydney noticed Dilnoza Israilova, 36, wearing a small, discreet camera on her Mickey Mouse T-shirt, according to New South Wales Police. They were subsequently arrested, with police discovering 'magnetised probes' and a mirror attachment for a phone that was allegedly used to rig games.
Both individuals have been charged with dishonestly obtaining financial advantage and remain in custody. Police reported that the couple arrived in Sydney from Kazakhstan in October and applied for casino membership on the same day.
Over several weeks, they visited the casino frequently, reportedly amassing winnings of A$1,179,412.50. Their behavior raised staff suspicions, resulting in their detection on a Thursday afternoon. The couple's spying devices were linked to their mobile phones, enabling them to capture images from the table.
In addition to the camera, it was reported that they utilized hidden earpieces to receive instructions on their betting strategies during card games. A police representative confirmed there is no ongoing search for additional suspects related to this case.
A subsequent search of their accommodations near the casino unveiled further gambling tools, high-end jewelry, and cash totaling €2,000 (£1,750; $2,320). The couple has appeared in court; Mrs. Israilova is scheduled for a hearing in February, while Mr. Israilov is expected back on December 11.
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