The government of Comoros is challenging the legitimacy of an offshore gambling licensing network that operates under the name of Anjouan, one of the islands in the Comorian union. Authorities are reportedly seeking British assistance, because the network is linked to UK nationals.
What the dispute is about
The question is whether the businesses issuing gambling licences have the necessary authorisation, and whether the framework they rely on is valid under national law.
Anjouan's licensing regime has grown as other offshore jurisdictions tightened their requirements. Researchers have questioned its documentary foundations, including a publicly available version of the purported 2005 gambling law that lacked an official signature or stamp.
Anjouan Gaming maintains that its licences are valid. The dispute is unresolved.
What players should check
- Who issues the licence, and whether that body is a government regulator or a private licensing company.
- Where the licence lets the operator offer gambling. Many offshore licences do not cover players in the US or UK.
- Which authority handles complaints if a withdrawal or account dispute goes wrong.
For a full checklist, read how to spot a safe online casino.
