Crown Resorts fined $1m for junket conduct

“The Commission concluded that in respect of the analysed individuals, the processes implemented by Crown were not robust, as required”

Crown Casino has been fined $1m by the Victorian gambling regulator for failing to vet its junket operations some of whom have links to organised crime gangs.

This Casino was slapped with the maximum amount that can be fined with is that of $1m under the Casino Control Act as it failed to comply with the Victorian Commission’s regulatory obligations.

The regulator said ‘This failure meant it was unclear how certain decisions were reached by Crown and whether such decisions were made with due regard to Crown’s regulatory obligations.’

VCGLR Chairman Ross Kennedy said in a statement that the fine reflects the seriousness of the matter and Crown’s failure to implement a robust process occurred over an extended period.

In addition to the fine, a letter of Censure was issued to the Commissioner prohibiting Crown from recommending junket operations in Melbourne until the casino can eventually prove that these can be conducted in line with regulations.

Back in April, SiGMA News had reported Bergin’s conclusions which showed that Crown Resorts was unsuitable to operate its new $2.2 billion development in Sydney, Barangaroo. Reports indicated evidence that the company’s facilities and accounts were used for money laundering, and the casino was pursuing commercial relationships with individuals with links to triads and other organised crime groups.

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