The Swedish Gaming Board has concluded its investigation into Lyoness, forwarding its findings to the Stockholm County Police Department. This action follows the Board's decision to notify police that Lyoness Sweden AB is suspected of breaching the Lotteries Act, specifically concerning the organization of chain letter games, which are commonly identified as pyramid schemes.
The Gaming Board had initiated its inquiry some time ago. During this period, Lyoness faced similar scrutiny abroad. Authorities in Norway opened a separate investigation into the company. Concurrently, Poland's Office of Competition and Consumer Protection (OCCP) declared Lyoness to be a pyramid scheme outright. These international developments provided a backdrop to the ongoing Swedish regulatory review.
With its own investigation complete, the Swedish Gaming Board formally transferred its evidence to law enforcement. A source within the Swedish Gambling Authority confirmed the decision, stating the Board's findings suggest a violation of the Lotteries Act. The referral shifts the matter from a regulatory assessment to a criminal investigation, placing it under the purview of the Stockholm County Police Department.
The County Police Authority in Stockholm now assumes responsibility for the case. Each of Sweden's 21 counties operates a County Police Authority, led by a County Police Commissioner. These authorities, along with their respective County Police Boards composed of local politicians and the commissioner, are appointed directly by the Government of Sweden. This structure places the ongoing investigation within the broader national law enforcement framework.
County Police Authorities report to the National Police Board, which in turn reports to the Ministry of Justice. This hierarchy ensures oversight and coordination for serious criminal matters. The police investigation will now build upon the Gaming Board's initial findings, determining whether formal charges will be brought against Lyoness Sweden AB.
The Gaming Board has stated it is no longer handling the case, directing all further inquiries regarding the continued investigation to the Police Authority in Stockholm.