Italian Poker Tournament Illegal
27th of October 2005
The world’s eye is on poker these days, both those who are excited to watch it grow and for the opportunity it presents, and those who are concerned about the legal and moral implications of gambling and the effects on their homes. In a startling example of what can happen, but one that certainly took players by surprise, the European Ranking festival in Amalfi, Italy was raided by police moments before the Pot Limit Omaha final table event was about to begin.
Players watched anxiously as the Carabinieri, the Italian police force, carted off poker chips, cards and cash. The found out from the promoters of the event that the tournament was illegal, and the following day were refunded their entry fees. Had the police not been tipped off to the event for one more day it is likely the five day event would have completed uneventfully, except of course for the poker.
