BREAKING: A married couple from Kazakhstan has been arrested in connection with an elaborate casino scam that netted them nearly $800,000 USD in just a few weeks. Dilnoza Israilova, 36, and Alisherykhoja Israilov, 44, were taken into custody by New South Wales authorities after a detailed investigation revealed their use of sophisticated spy equipment to cheat at a Sydney casino.
The couple arrived in Sydney in October 2023 and quickly registered for a casino membership. Over the next several weeks, they engaged in suspicious gambling activities, racking up winnings that raised red flags among casino staff. Investigators report that the couple utilized a custom-made surveillance rig hidden in a Mickey Mouse T-shirt, featuring a pinhole camera that transmitted live footage of casino tables directly to their smartphones.
Using hidden earpieces, they received real-time betting instructions, allowing them to exploit the casino’s systems effectively. According to New South Wales authorities, this deceitful strategy enabled them to accumulate winnings totaling approximately AUD 1.18 million (around $784,000 USD).
Casino staff became suspicious after noticing the small camera protruding from Israilova’s shirt. They alerted local law enforcement, leading to the couple’s arrest. Upon their apprehension, police discovered additional cheating tools, including “magnetised probes” and a phone-mounted mirror attachment, alongside high-end jewelry and a substantial amount of cash in their hotel room.
Both Israilova and Israilov have been charged with dishonestly obtaining a financial advantage and are currently in custody, having been denied bail. Their court appearances are set for later this year, with Israilov’s scheduled for October and Israilova’s in February.
This case highlights the lengths some individuals will go to for financial gain and serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing battle against cheating in casinos. As the investigation continues, authorities urge anyone with additional information to come forward.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.