Kazakh Couple Arrested for Rs 7 Crore Casino Scam Using Hidden Camera Technology at Sydney's Crown Casino

A Kazakh couple has been arrested for allegedly executing a sophisticated cheating operation at Sydney's Crown casino, amassing over Rs 7 crore (A$1.2 million) in winnings. Authorities claim that Dilnoza Israilova, 36, and her husband Alisherykhoja Israilov, 44, manipulated games using concealed technology including a miniature camera embedded in a Mickey Mouse T-shirt and discreet earpieces.

The pair arrived in Australia in October, promptly securing casino membership upon reaching Sydney. In subsequent weeks, they made repeated casino visits, accumulating winnings totaling approximately Rs 7 crore. Security personnel at the Barangaroo casino eventually detected the hidden camera as suspicions grew regarding their unusually substantial payouts.

"Casino staff observed a 36-year-old woman wearing a small, discreet camera attached to her shirt on Thursday," a police representative told The Guardian.

"Officers responded to the casino, where they apprehended both the woman and her 44-year-old husband."

During their investigation, authorities discovered additional equipment including "magnetised probes" and a mirror phone attachment. Police explained that the camera connected to the couple's mobile devices transmitted live footage from gaming tables.

"The pair utilized their mobile phones to capture table images while communicating through deeply inserted earpieces, receiving instructions on wagering strategies for different card games to effectively defraud the casino," police alleged.

Further searches of the couple's Sydney accommodation revealed additional gambling apparatus, luxury jewelry, and approximately Rs 2 lakh (2,000 euros) in cash. The couple faces charges of dishonestly obtaining financial advantage and remains in custody.

"Our detectives work in close partnership with casino security to identify and disrupt illegal activities. This robust collaboration is essential for maintaining gaming operation integrity, as demonstrated by this outcome," stated Detective Superintendent Peter Faux, Commander of the Organised Crime Squad.

Dilnoza's next court appearance is scheduled for February, while Alisherykhoja is due to appear at the Downing Centre local court on December 11.