Quebec to probe casino money laundering claims

The regulator will investigate allegations of in money laundering.

Canada.- An investigation is to be launched in Quebec over allegations of money laundering and other criminal activities at four state-owned casinos.

The province’s minister of finance, Eric Girard, has announced that an independent auditor will lead the investigation, although he did not reveal which properties would be audited.

Quebec’s government ordered the investigation after local news reports alleged that publicly owned Casino de Montreal had “rolled out the red carpet” for renowned organised crime figures.

The allegations implicated Stefano Sollecito, who was allegedly was permitted to gamble millions at the property despite declaring just C$50,000 in annual income to Canadian tax authorities.

While Loto-Québec insisted that the casino complies with regulatory standards, the provincial government felt an investigation into money laundering and casino loyalty programmes was necessary.

Regulators in North Carolina recently charged seven people for attempting to launder $2.1 million, including $350,000 through Harrah’s Cherokee Hotel and Casino.