Melbet scandal: how a betting site’s dark money network spanned Senegal, cyprus and Russia

An explosive investigation has uncovered a sophisticated financial network linked to the online betting platform Melbet, spanning multiple countries including Senegal, Cyprus and Russia. The scheme, currently under judicial scrutiny in Dakar, involves a web of international accomplices, dubious contracts and massive financial irregularities.

Judicial inquiry launched in Senegal over alleged melbet money laundering

In late January 2026, an investigation was opened in Senegal by the first cabinet of the Financial Crime Task Force following a probe by the Cybercrime Unit. The case focuses on Melbet, an online betting platform, and its suspected involvement in organized crime, fraudulent representation and money laundering.

Among the accused are individuals from diverse backgrounds: Russian national Filipp Mikhalin, Ivorian citizen Mécapeu Catherine Prisca Droh, along with Senegalese and Moldovan accomplices. All face judicial supervision while the investigation continues.

The scale of financial flows under scrutiny

Judicial records reveal staggering financial movements linked to Melbet’s operations in Senegal. Between September and December 2025, payments processed through the mobile money operator Wave totaled over 29.5 billion CFA francs. However, only about 23.5 billion CFA francs were returned to players, leaving a discrepancy of nearly 6 billion CFA francs unexplained. Authorities suspect this imbalance may indicate money laundering and opaque fund retention.

The scheme relied on deceptive advertising campaigns, particularly on Facebook and Meta, promising unrealistic daily winnings. Victims were lured into making micro-payments via unregulated platforms like the Game Sawa app before being able to claim supposed prizes. To add credibility, fraudsters exploited unauthorized use of institutional symbols, including the logo of RTS (Radiodiffusion Télévision Sénégalaise) and the image of football star Sadio Mané.

Cyprus-based melbet limited: a legal facade with international ramifications

The investigation has exposed the legal fragility of Melbet Limited, the Cyprus-based entity behind the platform. Despite being under liquidation proceedings, the company continued operations internationally through a network of shell companies. Documents cite Vikhrédia Suarl and Batnesto Ltd as entities involved in domain leasing agreements that did not grant official betting licenses.

The National Lottery of Senegal (Lonase) has firmly distanced itself from Melbet, denying any contractual ties and emphasizing strict compliance with anti-money laundering regulations. Authorities warn that the platform’s operations violate local gaming laws, raising serious concerns about financial transparency and consumer protection.