Catch the Moment and Penalty, two state lotteries in Ukraine, have been suspended by the Ukrainian Commission for the Regulation of Gambling and Lotteries (KRAIL).

The Ukrainian Commission for Regulation Gambling and Lotteries (KRAIL) has suspended two state lotteries in Ukraine, Catch the Moment and Penalty. Catch the Moment was an instant cash lottery, while Penalty was a monetary numerical draw lottery. Penalty has been operating in Ukraine since 15 September 2018.

The notice of suspension for both lotteries was published in the Ukrainian lottery newspaper Zigzag Udachy and the Ukrainian National Lottery website. Both suspended lotteries stopped accepting bets at 11:59 pm on 24 March. The suspension officially took effect on 3 April. However, no reason has been given why Catch the Moment, and Penalty has been suspended.

This is not the first time KRAIL has taken action against companies operating in the gambling industry in Ukraine. In December 2022, KRAIL canceled licenses belonging to three online gaming companies operated by Russian nationals. However, it is unclear if these actions are related to suspending the two lotteries.

KRAIL has been actively working to regulate the gambling industry in Ukraine since it was legalized in August 2020. The commission has the authority to license gambling operators and oversee their activities in the country. The move to regulate the industry was seen as a step towards creating a safer gambling environment in Ukraine and preventing illegal gambling activities.

KRAIL has recently voiced its support for Ukraine's entry into the European Union. As a result, the commission specified measures that it would implement to ensure Ukraine's success in the union. This includes strengthening the regulation of the gambling industry and promoting responsible gambling practices.

The suspension of Catch the Moment and Penalty is a significant development in the Ukrainian gambling industry. However, it remains to be seen what the reasons behind the suspension are and its impact on the industry. Unfortunately, KRAIL has not provided any further information on the matter.