Detectives in New South Wales have charged a married couple from Kazakhstan following an elaborate alleged scam that saw them dishonestly obtain more than $1.18 million from Sydney's Crown casino at Barangaroo.
The High-Tech Deception
Police allege the sophisticated operation involved a tiny camera concealed within a Mickey Mouse T-shirt and 'deep-seated earpieces' used for covert communication. The couple, a 36-year-old woman and her 44-year-old husband, are accused of using this equipment to capture images of gaming tables and receive instructions on how to wager on various card games.
On Thursday, casino staff became suspicious and observed the woman wearing what appeared to be a small, discrete camera attached to her clothing. Officers were immediately notified and attended the venue, where they arrested the pair.
The Investigation and Evidence
Following their arrest, investigators seized a haul of specialised equipment. This allegedly included:
- Small, magnetised probes and batteries
- A mobile phone with a fitted attachment to discreetly view and record images
- A small custom-made mirror attachment for the mobile phone
- Deep-seated earpieces used for receiving instructions
Police further alleged that the couple had travelled to Sydney from Kazakhstan in October 2025, applying for Crown memberships on the very day they arrived. Over the course of October and November, their multiple visits to the casino resulted in total winnings of $1.18 million, a sum that ultimately raised suspicions and triggered the investigation.
Aftermath and Official Response
A subsequent search of the couple's accommodation on Kent Street in Sydney led officers to allegedly locate additional gambling props, high-end jewellery, and €2,000 in cash.
Detective Superintendent Peter Faux, the organised crime squad commander, emphasised the importance of collaboration in tackling such crimes. "Our detectives collaborate closely with casino security to identify and disrupt unlawful behaviour," Faux stated. "This strong cooperation is vital to maintaining the integrity of gaming operations and is reflected in outcomes like this."
The couple now faces charges of dishonestly obtaining financial advantage by deception.
