The rapid expansion of online betting platforms in Senegal has taken a troubling turn, with a major investigation uncovering alleged financial irregularities tied to the controversial Melbet platform. Authorities have launched a sweeping inquiry into a network of individuals accused of operating an illicit scheme that may involve money laundering and fraudulent financial practices.

The investigation, led by the Division spéciale de lutte contre la cybercriminalité (DSC), has revealed a complex web of transactions and deceptive marketing tactics used to attract unsuspecting bettors. Among those implicated are individuals from multiple countries, including Russian national Filipp Mikhalin, Ivorian citizen Mécapeu Catherine Prisca Droh, and collaborators from Moldova, all currently under judicial supervision.

Uncovering a vast financial scheme

A deep dive into the operations of Melbet has exposed a pattern of misleading promotions and questionable financial flows. Between September and December 2025, forensic audits of transactions processed through mobile money provider Wave revealed staggering figures: over 29.5 billion FCFA in deposits and approximately 23.5 billion FCFA in withdrawals. The unexplained discrepancy of nearly 6 billion FCFA has raised red flags, suggesting potential money laundering or misappropriation of funds.

The modus operandi relied on enticing advertisements broadcast on social platforms like Facebook and Meta, promising instant wealth with slogans such as “millions to win daily”. To claim these supposed prizes, users were coerced into making micro-payments through unregulated payment gateways such as the app Game Sawa, which operates outside the oversight of the Loterie nationale sénégalaise (Lonase).

A web of deception and international ties

At the heart of the scandal lies the corporate structure of Melbet, which appears to be built on a foundation of shell companies and contractual ambiguities. The primary entity, Melbet Limited, registered in Cyprus, faces potential deregistration, rendering it legally incapable of conducting international operations.

To bypass these legal hurdles, an intricate network of front companies—including Vikhrédia Suarl and Batnesto Ltd—was reportedly employed. These entities allegedly leased domain names without proper licensing, creating the illusion of legitimacy while evading regulatory scrutiny. The Lonase has firmly distanced itself from Melbet, emphasizing that no official contractual ties exist and stressing the importance of strict adherence to anti-money laundering and transparency regulations.

Investigators have also noted the misuse of institutional symbols and public figures to lend false credibility to the operation. Unauthorized use of the logo of Radiodiffusion télévision sénégalaise (RTS) and the likeness of football star Sadio Mané were deployed to deceive potential bettors, further complicating the fraudulent scheme.