SportyBet is under increasing scrutiny as numerous customers allege unpaid winnings and locked accounts, causing significant concern among sports betting enthusiasts.
Reports from thegazellenews.com reveal that a significant number of bettors have stopped using SportyBet due to these issues. Customers complain of account lockouts and withheld winnings, with many unable to access their accounts despite providing requested verification documents.
A notable case involves Anthony Anozie, who began using SportyBet in November 2023. After depositing N5 million and growing his balance to nearly N18 million, Anozie was locked out of his account. Despite continuous contact with customer service and providing extensive documentation, including his international passport, his account remains inaccessible.
Anozie’s story is echoed by many others. Aleke Esther shared a similar experience of having her account locked despite submitting all required documents. She described the frustration of unanswered emails and calls, which left her funds trapped.
Another user reported that their account was frozen when attempting withdrawals, even after providing bank statements and a passport. Months of unanswered communications with customer service have left many users feeling exploited.
SportyBet has defended its actions, claiming customers used “bot technology” and “illegal automated bets.” However, independent IT experts have debunked these claims, questioning the legitimacy of SportyBet’s defense.
In response, over 100 affected customers, collectively owed more than N950 million, have filed petitions with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Police Special Fraud Unit (SFU), the Force Intelligence and Investigation Department (FIID), the National Data Protection Commission (NDPC), the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), and the National Lottery Regulatory Commission (NLRC).
These petitions, supported by IT experts’ findings, suggest that customers may have been unfairly treated. The involvement of the EFCC and SFU underscores the gravity of the situation, indicating a possible investigation into SportyBet’s practices.
SportyBet is now under pressure to provide clear explanations and transparency. With independent experts casting doubt on the company’s fraud claims, the onus is on SportyBet to present concrete evidence justifying its actions.
The outcome of this case will be closely monitored, as it may set a precedent for future disputes in the sports betting industry. Customers who adhere to the rules deserve fair treatment and the rightful receipt of their winnings.
Source: thegazellenews.com