4 days ago
Two men charged after alleged match-fixing attempt on Gold Coast soccer games
Two men have been charged after an alleged match-fixing attempt involving a Gold Coast football club.
Police allege on May 12 and June 20, two employees of an offshore investment group acting as "player agents" approached a Gold Coast soccer player at a Coomera address "in a coordinated effort to procure match-fixing behaviour in exchange for payment".
The Gold Coast United Football Club issued a statement in relation to the investigation on June 28.
"Gold Coast United FC is fully cooperating with both governing bodies throughout this process," the statement said.
"As these investigations are ongoing, the club is unable to provide further comment or disclose additional information at this time."
There is no suggestion there has been any wrongdoing by any Gold Coast United players.
On Tuesday, officers from the NSW Police Organised Crime Squad's Gaming Unit carried out search warrants at properties in Mosman and Mount Colah in Sydney.
A 55-year-old man and 45-year-old man were arrested and extradited to Brisbane on Wednesday.
They were both charged with one count each of procuring a person to engage in match-fixing with pecuniary benefit.
They are due to appear in the Brisbane Magistrates Court today.
Detective Chief Inspector Melissa Anderson from the Drug and Serious Crime Group said the matter was referred to authorities by Football Australia, and there was no evidence that a game was match-fixed or compromised.
"These charges should serve as a clear warning to anyone considering taking part in match-fixing."
She said this case was only the second time a person had been charged with a match-fixing offence since the legislation was introduced in 2014.
"Match-fixing is serious criminal behaviour that undermines community confidence in the fairness of sport," she said
"We are committed to working with partner agencies, including the New South Wales Police and Sport Integrity Australia, to ensure a safe and fair sporting environment in Queensland."
