Philippines probes junkets over ransom for kidnapped businessman
Police have identified two junket operators as potential facilitators of the operation
The Philippines.- The Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC), the Philippine National Police (PNP), the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) and casinos are investigating alleged money laundering linked to the ransom paid in the kidnapping of businessman Anson Que. They believe around PHP200m (US$$3.58m) was channelled through junket operators using gaming e-wallets then converted into digital currency to make tracing transactions more difficult.
The PNP identified two junket operators, 9 Dynasty Group and White Horse Club, as potential facilitators of the operation. Both reportedly ceased junket operations in Philippine casinos on May 7, 2025. 9 Dynasty has publicly announced its withdrawal from the Philippine market.
The AMLC said it remains “steadfast in its commitment to probe their alleged money laundering activities” and that it is “collaborating with the PNP to gather evidence on the unlawful activities, tracing the ransom funds in all their forms, and pursuing forfeiture proceedings.”
The investigation includes looking into players associated with the junket operators who may have received funds via their e-wallets and how payments were converted into cryptocurrency.
The AMLC said it was coordinating with the Philippine central bank (BSP), the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and with foreign financial intelligence units (FIUs) to gather information on the movement of funds.
It said: “Through this ongoing investigation, the AMLC reaffirms its dedication to upholding financial integrity, supporting the immediate resolution of this case, and ensuring that the Philippine financial system does not become a conduit for illicit activities.”
See also: Former PAGCOR chairman sentenced for graft and malversation
