NovaForge’s Role in the Online Gambling Industry
Recent investigations conducted by the Scam-Or Project have uncovered that NovaForge Ltd is a significant player in a worldwide network of illegal online casinos. The company operates under various brands and domains, continuing the legacy of the now-defunct Rabidi Group. Registered in the Marshall Islands and recently licensed by Anjouan Gaming, NovaForge’s operations raise serious concerns regarding compliance, money laundering, and the involvement of payment agents based in Cyprus.
The Rise of NovaForge Ltd
NovaForge Ltd is officially registered in the Marshall Islands and is associated with Anjouan Gaming, a licensing authority known for its controversial practices. The company manages numerous online casino brands, many of which were previously linked to the Rabidi Group. In its dual role, NovaForge functions as both an operator of illegal casinos and a payment processor within its network.
Key Players in the Network
The network includes several key entities. NovaForge Ltd, based in the Marshall Islands, serves as both a casino operator and a payment processor. Liernin Enterprises Ltd, also registered in the Marshall Islands, is a linked entity that manages various casino brands. Mirata Services Ltd, located in Cyprus, acts as a payment agent.
The Connection to the Rabidi Group
The Scam-Or Project’s report from September 2024 revealed that the bankruptcy of the Rabidi Group led to the discreet transfer of its assets to entities such as Liernin Enterprises and NovaForge. These new operators continue to run illegal gambling operations under rebranded domains, successfully evading regulatory scrutiny. The collapse of Rabidi was triggered by unpaid winnings owed to a German player, and since then, NovaForge and Liernin Enterprises have registered over 50 domains for casino operations through Anjouan Gaming.
Cyprus: The Central Operational Hub
Cyprus has become a crucial hub for the financial and operational activities of this network. Mirata Services Ltd facilitates payments through Binance, raising alarms about the potential use of cryptocurrency for money laundering. Additionally, NovaForge utilizes MiFinity, a high-risk payment processor, for handling transactions.
Connections to SoftSwiss and Russian Operators
Evidence indicates that NovaForge and the former Rabidi Group have ties to SoftSwiss and the Merkeleon Group. These entities, controlled by Russian nationals Roland Isaev and Paata Gamgoneishvili, support operations through gaming software and cryptocurrency payment platforms. Ivan Montik, the founder of SoftSwiss, is also connected to CoinsPaid and CryptoProcessing platforms. Other entities involved in this network include Dama, Hollycorn, and N1 Interactive.
Anjouan Gaming: A Controversial Licensing Authority
The licensing of NovaForge by Anjouan Gaming raises significant concerns regarding offshore regulatory frameworks. The lack of transparency and stringent oversight allows operators to create a façade of legitimacy while violating gambling laws in Europe, North America, and Asia. This licensing provides cover for illegal activities and undermines the efforts of local regulators to manage online gambling effectively.
The Expanding Network
Despite facing regulatory challenges, the illegal gambling network continues to thrive, adapting to exposure and enforcement actions. The network features new entities and brands that replace exposed operations with rebranded domains and legal entities. It also relies on high-risk payment processors like MiFinity and Binance, with operations extending across Europe, North America, and Asia, with Cyprus serving as a pivotal hub.
Conclusion
The emergence of NovaForge Ltd highlights the resilience of illegal online casino networks. With connections to SoftSwiss, the Merkeleon Group, and a questionable licensing framework, there is a clear need for stronger regulatory measures to address these ongoing issues.
