FBI Director Kash Patel Announces Massive Illegal Gambling Takedown, Warns “Just the Start”

FBI Director Kash Patel unveiled a sweeping nationwide operation targeting illegal gambling rings tied to organized crime, including notorious Mafia families. Dubbed “Operation Nothing But Bet” and “Operation Royal Flush,” the sting has led to over 30 arrests across 11 states, implicating NBA figures, mobsters, and millions in fraud. Patel warned this is “just the start” of a broader crackdown, vowing to “follow the money” and dismantle these networks.

The operation exposed two major schemes. Operation Nothing But Bet targeted an illegal sports betting ring exploiting insider NBA information to rig player prop bets, such as betting on “unders” by influencing players to exit games early.

Scanners at poker tables and direct coordination with athletes ensured rigged outcomes. Operation Royal Flush uncovered a nationwide poker scam using cheating devices, with proceeds laundered through cryptocurrency, defrauding victims of tens of millions. “The fraud is mind-boggling,” Patel said, emphasizing that these crimes involve “corruption in high places” and have “nothing to do with legal gambling.”

High-profile arrests include Portland Trail Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups, charged in the poker scheme, and Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier, arrested in the betting probe. Rozier’s attorney claims he was a “subject, not a target,” and is confident in clearing his name.

The sting also netted 13 members and associates of four New York Mafia families—Bonanno, Gambino, Genovese, and La Cosa Nostra affiliates—highlighting their shift from traditional rackets to modern fraud like online betting and crypto laundering. Assistant FBI Director Christopher Raia called the arrests the “tip of the iceberg,” signaling more to come.

Patel, appearing on The Ingraham Angle, doubled down: “If you break the law, we’re coming for you.” He dismissed critics, including ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith, for downplaying the scandal, and stressed the FBI’s role as law enforcers, not “morality police.”

The operation uncovered tens of millions stolen through extortion, wire fraud, and rigged games, with victims losing life savings. Prosecutors expect additional indictments soon, potentially expanding to other sports leagues or industries.

The NBA has yet to comment, but the scandal threatens to shake the league, with calls for reforms growing louder. Social media, particularly X, is ablaze with reactions, from clips of Patel’s fiery presser to debates over sports integrity. Patel’s aggressive stance, consistent with his prior probes into Antifa funding and Deep State activities, underscores his commitment to rooting out corruption. “We will not rest until every single one is fully exposed,” he declared.

This historic takedown marks a bold step in combating organized crime’s infiltration of sports and finance. As the FBI continues its pursuit, the nation watches closely for what’s next in this unfolding saga.