A Darwin Keno player never suspected he was both a lottery winner and the victim of an alleged theft. That is until police recently handed him more than $53,000.
It is alleged an employee at a licensed premises who checked the man's winning ticket three weeks ago lied, telling him he had lost, before making off with the jackpot.
On Wednesday NT Police charged the 35-year-old employee and a 36-year-old accomplice with criminal deception and stealing.
They are due to appear in Darwin Local Court next month.
Acting Senior Sergeant of the Serious Crime Squad, Karl Day, said the alarm was raised by other people working at the licensed premises, which the ABC understands to be SkyCity Casino in Darwin.
Police executed a search warrant at a house on Tuesday, finding a quantity of cash believed to have been part of the winnings.
Senior Sergeant Day said the victim had received the winnings and no similar cases had been reported.
"I think it's a pretty unique sort of thing; I don't think many people would have to be too concerned," he said.
"Licensed premises across the Territory are renowned for their professionalism when it comes to gambling.
"But everyone should pay attention when collecting or checking tickets of any sort."
SkyCity was contacted for comment, but said "as this is a police matter and as an investigation is underway and charges have been filed, we are unable to comment".
