Spain: Police raid nursing home over bingo money bets
Police in Bilbao recently intervened in a local nursing home to stop residents from playing their weekly bingo games for money. The elderly participants were reportedly betting 20 cents per card, which drew attention from a nearby licensed gaming hall.
Authorities reminded the players that gambling activities outside authorized establishments are illegal in the Basque region. Violations could result in fines of up to €60,000—an amount far beyond the means of the residents, effectively ending the informal bingo sessions. Gloria, the home’s treasurer, expressed frustration, insisting that the games were purely recreational and used to fund the activity symbolically.
Local regulations allow games without financial stakes for recreational purposes but strictly prohibit any gambling with monetary gains. Despite the fines, many residents and staff voiced outrage over the decision, arguing that bingo offers social engagement for those who may otherwise feel isolated.
Joserra Landaluce, president of the Nagusiak association representing 130 nursing homes, called for mediation with the Basque government’s gaming authority, citing similar law modifications in Galicia. The incident has sparked a national debate on balancing legal compliance with social activities for the elderly.
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